Hardship Agreement Review FAQs

Why is Council reviewing Hardship Agreements?

As per Council policy, Hardship Agreements allow for the deferral of Rates and Charges for 24 months.

If your hardship agreement is due to finish you will need to reapply by demonstrating your position of hardship, or have your agreement cancelled.

How do I apply?

Online at www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/hardshipreview

What if I cannot complete an online form?

If you are not able to complete an online application, you can make an appointment with our Property Rating Services team by visiting www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/hardshipreview  or calling 1300 368 333.

Please have all information included on your hardship review letter prepared for the appointment as timeframes are limited to 20 minutes.

Why is so much more information required?

In order to ensure that only customers in a position of hardship are provided a deferral of Rates and Charges, the application process is very thorough. Please ensure you provide all the required information to avoid delays

Please note that not all financial items are required in the application, Customers are encouraged to complete the form to the best of their ability in order to support their application.

What information will be required?

The information required in your application will consist of

  • Your financial information - Income, Expenditure, Debts, Assets.
  • Extenuating circumstances leading to hardship.
  • Proposed payment plans.

For a full list of questions we will ask please refer to the hardship review letter recently emailed or posted to you.

How does Council make its decision?

Council will make decisions around hardship based on the information provided.

If the financial information provided does not meet Council's criteria for hardship any extenuating circumstances will be considered also. Please provide both on your application.

 

Will I need to reapply?

All customers will be required to reapply every 24 months. 

What happens if I'm not eligible? If

If your application does not demonstrate a level of hardship that meets Council criteria,  or no application is submitted, your agreement will be cancelled and you will be notified.

Debt recovery actions may continue, so it is important that you pay in full on time or apply for a Payment Plan with Council to cease such actions.

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