A GROUP of Melton landholders protesting against rural rate rises has lost its appeal at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
But it says “alternative avenues” of action will be pursued.
Last Thursday, VCAT upheld Melton Council’s submission that the tribunal did not have jurisdiction in the matter.
The group had appealed to VCAT in an effort to have this year’s rates increase repealed because of what it believes are “exorbitant” hikes, land taxes and other costs.
In a statement, the Melton Rural Landowners Group Inc said VCAT’s decision was disappointing.
“We do not view the outcome at VCAT as a loss but rather affirmation that what is supposedly a people’s court is powerless.”
The group said it was frustrated that the council indicated on the back of rates notices that ratepayers had the right to appeal to VCAT “when they know very well that they have no power over them”.
As reported by the Weekly, hundreds of rural landholders are paying thousands of dollars more in rates this financial year.
A total of 430 properties of more than two hectares were hit by an average rise of up to 175 per cent.
The council said the hike was to recover expenses related to urban growth area planning.
After lodging objections during last year’s budget process, the landowners’ group met with council representatives in August but were unable to reach an agreement.
Council chief executive Kel Tori said the matter had been resolved.
He said the council had a hardship policy in place for ratepayers having trouble paying their rates.
