Council's COVID-19 Support Package

Published on 29 April 2020

Council has passed its COVID-19 Support Package with a range of measures to provide relief and assistance to the Burnie community over coming months, due to the economic impact of COVID-19.  These are in addition to the extensive support measures being provided by the Commonwealth and the Tasmanian Government to help alleviate the financial burden being felt by businesses, families and individuals.

Council’s Support Package includes:

• A rate freeze for the coming year - 0% general rate increase for 2020-21
• Waiving of penalty interest on outstanding rates balances from 1^st March to 30 June 2020.
• Continuation of the 2.5% early payment discount on rates in 2020-21
• A deferral of 2020-21 rates to later instalment payment times in 2020-21
• The introduction of a Financial Hardship Assistance Policy(PDF, 869KB) to support those in hardship circumstances
• Waiving of winter sports fees for 2020 winter season
• Waiving of community lease payments in 2020-21, and their insurance charges for 2019-20 and 2020-21
• Waiving of food shop licence fees in 2020-21
• Recovery initiatives to commence at a later time once the restrictions are lifted, including:

  - 2 hour free parking in MSCP for 3 months after lifting of restrictions
  - Free green waste entry for 3 months after lifting of restrictions 
  - Development of a promotions and events program to support community recovery once restrictions are lifted 

Review the Financial  Hardship Assistance Policy(PDF, 869KB) and follow Council’s facebook page and our website for ongoing updates.