Three changes are occurring which will impact both your water bill and general rate notice from 1 July 2026.
1. The stormwater drainage charge is moving from the water bill to the rate notice
Council has transferred the stormwater drainage charge from the water bill to the general rate notice from 1 July 2026, in line with legislative requirements.
The change is limited to how the charge is collected and ensures continued funding for essential stormwater services. It does not impact the total amount applicable.
The total charge for the year will appear on the annual rate notice, with the amount payable over four instalments, the same as rates and other charges on your notice.
2. Water and wastewater charges are increasing from 1 July 2026
IPART has also set the price Council can charge for water and wastewater charges from 1 July 2026. The independent regulator has determined that Council can charge an additional 5.5% for the period of 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027 for essential water and wastewater services.
3. New land valuations affect how your rates are calculated
The NSW Valuer General determines land valuations across the Central Coast. On average, a 0.5% increase has taken place for residential properties. However, land values don’t equal rate increases.
Changes to NSW Valuer General land valuations don’t directly increase Council’s total rates – they are used to redistribute how rates are shared across properties.
That means your rates may vary relative to others. If your land value increased more than the local average, your rates may rise slightly; if it increased less, your rates may decrease slightly.
Separate to land valuations, a standard consumer price index (CPI) increase applies. From 1 July, rates will also include the annual rate peg (3.2% for 2026-27), which applies to all properties.
Rebates and hardship assistance
To find out if you are eligible to apply for a pensioner rebate or hardship assistance on your rates notice and water account, visit rebates and hardship assistance at https://www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/.
Information from Central Coast Council website
