Applications Open for Community Rates Remissions Program (Australia)

The Community Rates Remissions Program by Devonport City Council provides full or partial rates relief to eligible non-profit organisations that own property or are responsible for paying council rates in Devonport, Tasmania. The programme helps community organisations continue delivering valuable social, environmental, sporting, and community services by reducing their general rates burden.

About the Community Rates Remissions Program

The Community Rates Remissions Program is offered by Devonport City Council to support eligible non-profit organisations operating within the Devonport local government area in Tasmania.

The programme provides financial assistance through a rates remission, meaning successful applicants receive a reduction or removal of eligible council rates rather than receiving direct grant funding.

The initiative aims to strengthen community organisations by reducing operational costs and allowing them to continue providing services that benefit local residents.

Purpose of the Program

The main purpose of the Community Rates Remissions Program is to support organisations that create positive outcomes for the Devonport community.

The programme helps organisations by:

• Reducing general rates expenses.
• Supporting continued delivery of community services.
• Strengthening local volunteer and community organisations.
• Supporting activities that provide social, environmental, cultural, or recreational benefits.

Type of Support Available

Successful applicants may receive:

• Full remission of general rates.
• Partial remission of general rates.

The assistance is provided as a reduction in rates payable and is not provided as a cash payment.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Non-profit organisations that own property in Devonport.
• Non-profit organisations responsible for paying council rates.
• Non-profit sporting organisations that:
  • Own property.
  • Pay rates on leased property.
  • Are not licensed organisations.

Applicants must demonstrate that they provide benefits to the Devonport community.

Priority Considerations

Priority may be given to organisations that:

• Operate within the Devonport local government area.
• Provide clear benefits to Devonport residents.
• Align with Devonport City Council priorities.
• Deliver significant community or environmental benefits.
• Demonstrate financial need.
• Show financial sustainability.
• Have successfully completed previous Council grant acquittals.
• Have no outstanding Council debts or have approved payment arrangements.

Examples of Organisations That May Benefit

The programme may support organisations involved in:

• Community services.
• Local sport and recreation.
• Environmental activities.
• Social support programs.
• Community development initiatives.
• Volunteer-led activities.

How to Apply

Applicants should follow these steps:

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Organisations should check that they:

• Have non-profit status.
• Own property or are responsible for paying rates.
• Operate activities that benefit the Devonport community.

Step 2: Prepare Required Information

Applicants need to provide information about:

• Organisation details.
• Activities and services delivered.
• Community impact.
• Funding received from other sources.
• Previous Council support.
• Financial position.
• Incorporation status where applicable.

Step 3: Submit Application

Applicants must complete the Community Rates Remissions application process and provide all required supporting documents.

Step 4: Assessment and Decision

Applications are reviewed against:

• Eligibility requirements.
• Programme guidelines.
• Priority criteria.
• Overall community benefit.

Assessment Criteria

Applications are assessed based on:

• Community impact.
• Alignment with Council priorities.
• Financial circumstances.
• Need for rates support.
• Organisational capacity.
• Compliance with previous funding requirements.

Meeting eligibility requirements does not automatically guarantee approval.

Final decisions depend on the overall quality and circumstances of each application.

Required Documents and Information

Applicants may need to provide:

• Organisation profile.
• Description of community activities.
• Evidence of community benefits.
• Financial statements.
• Details of other funding sources.
• Incorporation documents where applicable.
• Declaration confirming eligibility and compliance with guidelines.

Why the Program Matters

Community organisations often rely on limited resources, volunteers, and local support to continue delivering important services.

Rates remissions can help organisations:

• Reduce fixed operating expenses.
• Direct more resources towards community programs.
• Maintain essential services.
• Improve community participation and wellbeing.

The programme strengthens local community infrastructure by supporting organisations that contribute to Devonport’s social and environmental outcomes.

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants should:

• Clearly explain their community contribution.
• Demonstrate why rates support is needed.
• Provide accurate financial information.
• Highlight measurable community outcomes.
• Explain how the remission will help continue services.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

• Submitting incomplete applications.
• Failing to explain community benefits.
• Providing unclear financial information.
• Ignoring previous grant reporting requirements.
• Applying without meeting eligibility conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Community Rates Remissions Program?

It is a Devonport City Council programme that provides full or partial rates relief to eligible non-profit organisations.

Does the program provide cash funding?

No. Support is provided through a reduction or remission of council rates payable.

Who can apply for rates remission?

Non-profit organisations that own property or are responsible for paying rates in Devonport can apply.

Can sporting organisations apply?

Yes. Non-profit sporting organisations may apply if they own property or pay rates on leased property and are not licensed.

Is approval guaranteed if an organisation is eligible?

No. Applications are assessed competitively, and eligibility alone does not guarantee approval.

What information must applicants provide?

Applicants must provide organisation details, community impact information, financial documents, funding details, and eligibility declarations.

Why does Council provide rates remissions?

The programme helps community organisations continue delivering valuable services and activities that benefit Devonport residents.

Conclusion

The Community Rates Remissions Program by Devonport City Council provides important support for non-profit organisations by reducing the financial pressure of council rates. Through full or partial rates remission, eligible organisations can continue delivering community, sporting, social, and environmental activities that improve life across Devonport, Tasmania.

Applicants should provide complete information, demonstrate community impact, explain financial need, and meet all programme requirements to strengthen their application.