Temora Shire Council Expands Support to Assist More Ratepayers
Published on 05 May 2026
Temora Shire Council has expanded its Hardship Policy through recent amendments made in August 2025, increasing the support available to ratepayers experiencing financial difficulty.
The updated policy broadens eligibility for assistance and strengthens the range of support options available, including flexible payment arrangements and the potential for interest relief in certain circumstances.
Council says the changes are intended to provide more accessible and practical support for residents facing unexpected financial challenges, while ensuring all applications are assessed fairly and in line with legislative requirements.
Mayor Rick Firman OAM said the updated policy reflects Council’s commitment to supporting the community through challenging times.
“Council understands that many of us can experience unexpected financial pressure at different times in our lives. The changes made by Council staff, were about making sure our Hardship Policy is fair, practical, and able to support more of us in our shire community when we need it most.”
“We’ve expanded our hardship provisions so that more of our ratepayers may now be eligible for support. We don’t want anyone to feel like they have nowhere to turn—if you’re struggling at the moment, we encourage you to reach out and have a strictly private, confidential conversation.”
Under the policy, all applications for support are treated as strictly confidential. Ratepayers can apply online using Council’s Hardship Rate Relief Application Form, which can be emailed directly to Council for assessment. A Senior Council officer will respond in writing with the outcome, meaning face-to-face contact is not required unless the applicant chooses to do so.
Support is also available through phone enquiries or in-person appointments with Council staff to discuss available options.
“All discussions and applications are handled confidentially and with care. Our citizens can apply online, contact Council by phone, or meet with a senior member of staff in person—whatever suits them best,” Mayor Firman said.
“Even if you are unsure whether you qualify, we strongly encourage you to please reach out. Early conversations can make a real difference, and our staff are here to help our community understand what options are available to us.”
The policy allows Council to consider a range of circumstances when assessing applications, including changes in income, illness, family breakdown, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events that may impact a ratepayer’s ability to pay.
Where eligible, ratepayers may enter into flexible payment arrangements and, in certain cases, Council may write off interest for the duration of an approved arrangement. These provisions are designed to give our ratepayers additional time and support to manage outstanding debts.
Applications are assessed individually and determined by the General Manager in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act.
Our eligible pensioners may also receive reductions on rates and charges, including up to $250 on ordinary rates and domestic waste charges and up to $87.50 on sewerage charges, subject to legislative criteria.
Council is encouraging any of our ratepayers experiencing difficulty to please make contact early, even if they are unsure about their eligibility.
“Councillors and Staff are aware that many of us experience tough times. To that end we’re trying to help our community, as best we can,” Mayor Firman concluded.
For more information or to access the Hardship Rate Relief Application Form, visit Council’s website or contact Temora Shire Council directly on 6980 1100.
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Temora Shire Council Media Enquires
Corporate Communications Officer – Elise Hawthorn
E: communications@temora.nsw.gov.au
P: 6980 1127