Following the state budget release yesterday I ask OLG the impact on Councils re funding of the mandatory rebate. The following was received from Mark in response to my enquiry:
As announced in yesterday’s budget, the State Government has agreed to “step in” and fund the shortfall in funding from the Federal Government for concessions for 2014/15. That means councils will continue to be reimbursed 55% of the cost of the concession/s (rates and DWMC and water & sewer, where the council provides those services). This commitment is for 2014/15 only – the State Government has indicated it will be seeking to negotiate with the Federal Government for the reinstatement of the grant funding over the next 12 months. While this may create some uncertainty for future years, councils can be assured of a 55% reimbursement for 2014/15. A press release regarding the matter is: http://www.budget.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/124359/14.2_Minister_Ajaka_-_State_Budget_Protects_Senior_and_Pensioner_Concessions.pdf
Thanks to Mark for the response.
JT
