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Launceston Approves 4.9% Rates Rise as Devonport and Burnie Propose Increases

Councils say higher revenue will fund major stadium, theatre and street projects to protect council finances.

Overview

  • The City of Launceston council approved a 4.9% increase to rates revenue for 2026–27, which the council says will raise about $159.4 million in income and add roughly $89 on average to property bills.
  • Devonport City Council has put forward a 4.75% general rate rise for 2026–27 and councillors are set to vote on the proposed budget, which the council says would add about $114 a year in general rates for the average home.
  • Burnie Council released a draft budget proposing a 3.95% general rates increase described as below national inflation, backed by a $29.4 million capital works program funded partly by $11.7 million in grants.
  • Councils link the rises to large capital projects—Devonport’s $24 million indoor sports stadium, Launceston’s Princess Theatre and Earl Arts Centre upgrade plus $11.4 million for Margaret Street, and multiple Burnie infrastructure items—and say grant funding will cover much of that work.
  • Household impacts will vary because of a municipal revaluation and fixed charges; Devonport cites an overall average bill rise of about $3.23 per week after service charge and levy changes, and councils warn different property classes will feel different effects.