If you find yourself in financial difficulty and don't believe you can meet your upcoming payment by the due date, you can apply for one of Council's flexible payment options. We can offer arrangements such as payment extensions and payment plans on a case by case basis. 

The guidelines for the assessment of hardship applications are outlined in our Debt Management and Hardship Policy.
 

Payment Arrangement Options

Choose what works best for you, and consider any upcoming future amounts that are not yet issued or due.

If you currently have an arrangement with us but need to make changes, you can apply for a new payment arrangement.

Payment extension and lump sum payment.	Payments are placed on hold for a period of time (up to 6 months). Full outstanding amount is made in one payment on a specific date.
Payment extension and payment plan.	Payments are placed on hold for a period of time (up to 6 months). Payment recommences at an agreed date in smaller regular instalments (weekly, fortnightly or monthly) with full payment made within a 12 month period.
Payment plan only.	Payments are made in smaller, regular instalments (weekly, fortnightly or monthly) within a 12 month period.

Penalty Charges

• Council cannot waive or reduce any interest or late payment fees charged to the account outside of the agreed payment arrangement period.
• In certain circumstances, Council may agree to write off interest charges accrued during the agreed payment arrangement period.​

 

Late / Missed Payments for Payment Arrangements

If, for any reason, you are unable to make your scheduled payment, please contact us as early as possible. Otherwise, the payment plan may be cancelled and all outstanding amounts will be due immediately. Any agreement to write off interest will be forfeited.

If you miss a payment for your payment arrangement:

• Penalty charges may apply e.g. interest, late fees, legal fees.
• Debt recovery action may commence / recommence at any time.
• If you request a new payment plan in the future, we may ask you to make a higher upfront payment or higher regular payments or both.

 

To Apply

Submit the Hardship Assistance form before the due date so you do not incur interest or late payment fees. 

Submit Hardship Assistance - Payment Arrangement

If you would like help in completing the form, please contact our Customer Service team on (02) 9330 6400.
 

Frequently Asked Questions​

• Does Council offer discounts on rates for pensioners?
• Will a payment arrangement affect my credit rating?

  Entering into a payment arrangement with Council has no impact on your credit rating.

• I already have a payment arrangement with Council but my circumstances have changed.

  You can apply for a new payment arrangement by submitting a new Hardship Assistance – Payment Arrangement form along with any supporting documentation.
  
  If your request is approved, we’ll cancel your previous plan. If Council agrees to waive interest, it will start from the date you enter into the new plan.