Serpentine Jarrahdale Sticks with GRV for Rates: What It Means for Residents

GRV Stays Put: Serpentine Jarrahdale Rate System Unchanged

Effective April 16, 2026, the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale has formally reaffirmed its commitment to using Gross Rental Value (GRV) as the basis for calculating property rates.

What happened

The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale published a notice in the WA Government Gazette confirming that GRV will continue to be used to calculate rates. This decision means the council will continue to assess rates based on the estimated annual rental income a property could generate. The notice, published on April 16, 2026, formalises the council's approach to property valuation for rating purposes. This reaffirms the existing system for the foreseeable future.

What this means for you

If you own property in the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale, this decision directly impacts the amount you pay in council rates. Your rates will continue to be calculated based on the GRV of your property, which is an estimate of its potential rental income. If your property's rental value increases, your rates will likely increase as well. Conversely, if the rental value decreases, your rates may decrease. This also means that external factors influencing rental values, such as short-stay accommodations, can indirectly affect your rates. Landowners should be aware of this valuation method to anticipate rate changes. Recent planning scheme updates regarding short-term accommodation in similar shires like Wanneroo may offer insight into potential future considerations for Serpentine Jarrahdale.

What this means for WA

The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale's decision to maintain GRV aligns with the standard practice for many local governments in Western Australia. While some councils have explored alternative rating systems, Serpentine Jarrahdale's choice signals a continuation of the established norm. This provides stability for property owners within the shire, but also reinforces the broader reliance on GRV as a key mechanism for local government funding across the state. It also places the onus on property owners to understand how GRV is calculated and how it may be affected by factors such as short-term rental income. This decision by the Shire reinforces the power local governments have in shaping the financial landscape for residents.

The numbers

• The decision takes effect on April 16, 2026, as published in the WA Government Gazette.
• The GRV is an estimate of the annual rent a property could reasonably achieve if it were available for lease.
• Rate increases or decreases will directly correlate with changes to a property's GRV valuation.
• The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale's decision contrasts with other potential rating systems, highlighting a choice to maintain the status quo.
• The Gazette notice specifically designates the "Basis of Rates" for the Shire, making it a formal and public record.

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