Find out about rates rebates and deferments available.
Rebate eligibility criteria
If you meet all the below criteria, you could qualify for a rebate or deferment:
- You must own and occupy (live in) the property as of 1 July of that year; and
- You must hold the appropriate concession card(s):
- Pensioner rebate:
- A valid Pensioner Concession Card; or
- A valid State Concession Card; or
- Both a valid WA Seniors Card and a valid Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.
- Seniors rebate:
- A valid WA Seniors Card.
- Pensioner rebate:
If you meet the above criteria, please register your cards with the Water Corporation. To claim a rebate, your portion of the general rates, Specified Area rates (if any), Emergency Services Levy, all arrears and service charges must be paid on or before the 30 June each year.
Important note: There is no extension available for payment after this date.
How to apply
To apply for a pensioner or senior rebate, you have two options:
- Online application: You can apply for a concession online through the Water Corporation website and they will forward a copy of your completed application to the City.
- Phone application: Contact the Water Corporation on 1300 659 951 to complete your application over the phone and they will forward a copy of your completed application to the City.
Your concession will apply from the date your application is received by the Water Corporation.
Partial concessions
If you receive a Seniors Card or Pensioner Concession Card during the financial year, you may qualify for a partial concession. This concession will apply from the date the Water Corporation receives your pensioner/senior application.
Rebate amounts
Important note:
- Rebates for general rates are capped to a maximum amount and announced as part of the annual State budget.
- For both pensioners and seniors, the Emergency Services Levy rebate is not capped to a maximum amount.
- Pensioners who are eligible to defer their general rates may also defer their Emergency Services Levy.
| Category | Rebate description | Maximum rebate for 2024/25 |
|---|---|---|
| Pensioners (who meet the eligibility criteria) | Claim a rebate of up to 50 per cent of the current years' general rates (including Specified Area Rate). Claim a rebate of up to 50 per cent of the current years' Emergency Services Levy. | $750 No maximum. |
| Seniors (who meet the eligibility criteria) | Claim a rebate of up to 25 per cent of the current years' general rates (including Specified Area Rate). Claim a rebate of up to 25 per cent of the current years' Emergency Services Levy. | $100 No maximum. |
Payment options
To claim your rebate, pay your portion of the general rates, Specified Area Rate (if applicable), Emergency Services Levy, all arrears, and service charges in full by 30 June of the financial year.
Note: The Refuse Charge, fees for a 240L Refuse Bin, additional Recycling or Greens Bin and Pool Inspection Fee are not eligible for a pensioner rebate and must be paid by the rates notice due date each year.
If you are eligible, you can defer the full amount of your general rates, Specified Area Rate (if applicable) and Emergency Services Levy. Deferred amounts will remain as a charge on your property until it is sold or you vacate. No interest is applied to deferred amounts.
Restrictions:
- The Refuse Charge, fees for a 240L Refuse Bin, additional Recycling or Greens bin, and Pool Inspection Fee cannot be deferred and must be paid by the rate notice due date.
- Deferment is unavailable for life tenants, seniors, or pensioners entitled to less than a 50% rebate.
Changes in circumstances
Should any of your circumstances change, such as your pension type, concession card type, your address, or your eligibility for a concession, please contact our Rating Services Team on 9400 4000 or via rates@joondalup.wa.gov.au.
Who determines concession rules
The Office of State Revenue, Revenue WA determines all rules in relation to the rebates and deferments for pensioners and seniors and the City administers and applies these rules.
More information and contact
For assistance, please contact the City on 9400 4000 and ask for the Rating Services Team, or via rates@joondalup.wa.gov.au.