Some ratepayers are expected to pay more than the six per cent rise, in booming areas including Golden Square, however some residents will have lower rates. 

City of Greater Bendigo councillors voted for a six per cent rate rise for the 2014/2015 year, but Ms Allan said that did not mean individual ratepayers will pay a uniform six per cent increase.

The rates are determined by the value of a property, and rates will differ because of a recent council evaluation of properties. 

“Every two years council is required under state government legislation to revalue every rateable property in greater Bendigo and this year is a revaluation year,” Ms Allan said.

“Many properties will have increased in value since the last revaluation in 2012 and some properties may have decreased, so the rate level will not be a uniform six per cent increase across the municipality.”

She said some significant rate rises would occur in areas including Golden Square with many properties there having increased in value, as well as being undervalued for some time.

“The methods we use to value properties are continually being refined and improved. These new methods help to achieve more accurate valuations,” Ms Allan said.

“As a result, the rates being charged more accurately reflect the true value of properties in that area, which is a fairer outcome for all ratepayers in Greater Bendigo.”

She said $93.38 million would be raised from rates and charges in 2014/2015 and $10.15 million from the fire services levy.

“Funds from rates and charges will go towards providing services and infrastructure for the greater Bendigo community, while the FSL is collected on behalf of the state government to be used for the Country Fire Authority and Metropolitan Fire Brigade,” Ms Allan said.

People who pay their rates in full by September 30 will receive a 1.5 per cent discount. 

Ms Allan encouraged people to receive their rate notices electronically. For further details go to www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/rates