Hi Emma
I am not sure what path we are going to take at this stage, however i think its important to take the following into account. I also agree with Dallas’ post above and will probably modify our recovery commencement letter to consider the items outlined below.
Clause 413L of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005
413L COVID-19 pandemic—extension of prescribed period
The prescribed period referred to in section 747AA of the Act ends at the end of 25 March 2021.
So that means that unless you have taken the following steps, formal recovery is not allowed until 26 March 2021.
747AB COVID-19 pandemic—recovery of unpaid rates
During the prescribed period, proceedings for the recovery of a rate or charge may not be commenced against a person by or on behalf of a council under section 712 unless the council has considered each of the following—
(a) whether the payment of the rate or charge could be made in instalments or by way of some other financial arrangement,
(b) whether the person should be referred to a financial counsellor,
(c) whether mediation or alternative dispute resolution should be attempted first,
(d) whether interest on the unpaid amount should be deferred or waived.
I hope this is helpful.
Regards,
Andrew
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