North Sydney Council has approved a rate increase of over 87% over two years, sparking strong opposition from residents who cite cost-of-living pressures and concerns over the consultation process. The council will now seek approval from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal.
Residents against the rate increase gathered outside the North Sydney Council Chambers building ahead of the meeting. North Sydney Council voted late on Monday night to increase rates by more than 87 per cent over two years.
Independent mayor Zoë Baker shouted "this is an outrage" as she attempted on various occasions to keep order, as some of those in attendance yelled "stand down" at councillors in favour of the hike. "North Sydney residents have been under enormous pressure over the past few years, which has put a significant strain on many households,"Martin Dudley, a local resident for the past 25 years, referenced the lack of community support shown in a recent survey, and asked for further analysis to be undertaken.
Others took aim at the consultation process, held between November 27 last year and January 10 this year, as not having been long enough, and having occurred at a time when most people were on holidays.John Hancock, another North Sydney local, was among the few attendees who spoke in support of the rise, describing himself as "one of the silent majority".
RATE INCREASE COUNCIL MEETING NORTH SYDNEY RESIDENTS PROTEST COST-OF-LIVING
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