Setting Up a Rates Payment Plan

1. Quarterly Installment Plan (Standard)

This is the default payment structure for all rates notices:

• Payment frequency: Four times per year
• Payment timing: Each installment due 35 days after notice issue
• Payment amount: Total annual rates divided by 4
• Setup required: None – this is automatic
• Best for: Those who prefer fewer, larger payments

2. Monthly Direct Debit Plan

Spread your rates over 12 equal monthly payments:

• Payment frequency: Monthly
• Payment day: Choose your preferred date (1st, 10th, 15th, or 28th of each month)
• Payment amount: Total annual rates divided by 12
• Setup required: Application and bank account details needed
• Best for: Those paid monthly or who prefer consistent monthly budgeting

Example: If your annual rates are $2,400, you would pay $200 per month for 12 months.

3. Fortnightly Direct Debit Plan

The most frequent payment option available:

• Payment frequency: Every fortnight (26 payments per year)
• Payment timing: Aligned with common pay cycles
• Payment amount: Total annual rates divided by 26
• Setup required: Application and bank account details needed
• Best for: Those paid fortnightly or who prefer the smallest individual payments

Example: If your annual rates are $2,400, you would pay approximately $92.31 per fortnight for 26 fortnights.

General Eligibility

• Be the registered property owner or authorized agent
• Have no outstanding rates debt from previous years (unless agreed with the City)
• Maintain the payment plan once established
• Update the City if your banking details change

Direct Debit Requirements

For monthly or fortnightly direct debit plans, you must also:

• Have an active Australian bank account in your name
• Ensure sufficient funds are available for each scheduled payment
• Notify the City at least 5 business days before any changes to account details
• Agree to the City's direct debit terms and conditions

Existing Arrears

If you have overdue rates:

• Contact the Rates team to discuss your situation
• A special payment arrangement may be negotiated
• Agreement must be in writing and approved by the City
• Penalty interest may continue to accrue on overdue amounts

Step-by-Step Setup Process

Important Setup Considerations

• Timing: Set up your plan before the first quarterly due date to avoid penalties
• First payment: May be adjusted to align your account with the selected payment cycle
• Pro-rata calculations: If setting up mid-year, amounts will be calculated accordingly
• Bank verification: Ensure all bank details are correct to avoid failed payments

Payment Processing

• Processing day: Payments are debited on your chosen date
• Processing time: Typically takes 2-3 business days to clear
• Receipt: Available through MyWanneroo after each payment
• Confirmation: Email notification sent after successful payment (if opted in)

Annual Adjustments

Each July when new rates are set:

• Your payment amount will be automatically adjusted to reflect the new annual rates
• You'll receive notification of the updated payment amount
• Your payment plan continues without interruption
• No need to reapply – your plan rolls over automatically

Checking Your Account Balance

Monitor your rates account easily through multiple channels:

• MyWanneroo portal: Real-time balance and payment history
• Phone: Call (08) 9405 5000 for account balance
• Email: Request a statement from rates@wanneroo.wa.gov.au
• Quarterly statements: Mailed with your rates notices

Making Additional Payments

You can make extra payments at any time to:

• Pay ahead on your plan
• Reduce your overall balance
• Pay off rates in full

Additional payments don't affect your regular scheduled payments unless you request to cancel the plan after paying in full.

Changing Your Payment Plan

To modify your existing payment plan:

• Contact the Rates team at least 10 business days before the next scheduled payment
• Changes you can request:
  • Payment frequency (monthly to fortnightly or vice versa)
  • Payment date
  • Bank account details
• Complete a new Direct Debit form if changing bank accounts
• Changes take effect from the next payment cycle

Canceling Your Payment Plan

If you wish to cancel your payment plan:

1. Provide written notice to the Rates team at least 5 business days before the next payment
2. Outstanding balance reverts to quarterly installments
3. Any remaining balance must be paid by the next quarterly due date
4. Penalty interest may apply if quarterly payments are missed

What Happens if a Payment Fails?

If your direct debit payment is dishonored due to insufficient funds:

1. Immediate notification: You'll receive an email and letter advising of the failed payment
2. Dishonor fee: Your bank may charge a dishonor fee
3. City fee: The City may charge an administrative fee for failed payments
4. Re-attempt: The City will typically retry the payment within 5 business days
5. Your action required: Ensure funds are available for the retry attempt

Multiple Failed Payments

If two or more consecutive payments fail:

• Your payment plan may be suspended
• You'll be required to contact the Rates team to discuss your account
• Outstanding balance may revert to quarterly installments
• Penalty interest will apply to overdue amounts
• You may need to make a lump sum payment to reinstate the plan

Preventing Failed Payments

• Maintain sufficient funds in your account before each payment date
• Set up bank alerts to remind you of upcoming debits
• Consider using a dedicated account for bills and rates
• Contact the Rates team immediately if you anticipate issues

Hardship Support Available

• Extended payment arrangements: Longer-term plans beyond standard options
• Reduced payment amounts: Temporary reduction in payment frequency or amount
• Interest waivers: Consideration for waiving penalty interest (case-by-case basis)
• Payment suspension: Temporary suspension during extreme hardship

How to Apply for Hardship Assistance

1. Contact the Rates team as soon as possible – don't wait until you're significantly behind
2. Provide information about your financial situation (employment status, income, expenses)
3. Supporting documentation may be required (Centrelink statements, medical certificates, etc.)
4. The City will assess your request and work with you to find a suitable solution
5. Agreements will be documented in writing

Remember: The City wants to help, and early communication is key. Don't be embarrassed to reach out for assistance.

Is there a fee to set up a payment plan?

No, payment plans are free to establish and maintain. The City does not charge any setup or administration fees for direct debit arrangements.

Can I change my payment date?

Yes, you can request to change your payment date by contacting the Rates team. Changes must be requested at least 10 business days before your next scheduled payment.

What if I pay off my rates early?

If you pay your rates in full, your payment plan will automatically cease. You won't be charged for future scheduled payments, and you can re-establish a plan when your next rates notice is issued.

Can I have different payment plans for multiple properties?

Yes, if you own multiple properties in the City of Wanneroo, you can set up different payment plans for each property according to your preferences.

Will my payment plan automatically renew each year?

Yes, your payment plan continues indefinitely and automatically adjusts each year when new rates are set, unless you cancel it.