Grape growers in the Renmark Paringa area are eligible for a rate remission amid the current difficult market conditions.

Elected members passed a number of recommendations at a special meeting of council on Monday 8 July to allow for the rate relief scheme.

The range of provisions were recommended to council to account for the financial hardships that may be experienced by grape growers due to the ongoing issues in the viticulture sector from extremely poor commodity prices and international market influences.

These provisions include a rate remission of $500 per property and the waiving of fines and interest.

These provisions aim to strike a balance between providing genuine relief for grape growers, ensuring sufficient cash flow, and displaying a level of compassion and empathy to those affected.

The endorsed recommendations included:

• The waiving of fines and interest for all properties with a land use code containing ‘Vines’ for the period 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025;
• Waiving of application fees to change land use for the period 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.

For all the details on how to apply for the rate remission visit here: https://www.renmarkparinga.sa.gov.au/council/rates/rebates-and-concessions.