Specified Area Rates (SARs) are additional charges that apply in Port Coogee and Shoreline (Cockburn Coast). They fund higher service standards and the maintenance of unique local assets in these precincts.
What SARs are
SARs were introduced as part of the development approvals for Port Coogee and Cockburn Coast. They ensure the City can maintain specialised facilities, meet environmental obligations, and provide higher service standards without shifting these costs to all Cockburn ratepayers.
SARs cannot be used for new or optional works. They only cover the obligations agreed to when the SAR was established. If those obligations no longer apply, the SAR will be terminated and any remaining funds returned to ratepayers as required by law.
Where SARs apply
- Port Coogee - applies to all houses, apartments, commercial properties, and vacant land in the development. Initially supported by a developer deposit, now funded through SARs.
- Shoreline (Cockburn Coast) - established in 2015. Applies to the Robb Jetty precinct and will extend as new precincts are completed. Initially funded by the developer, now covered by SARs.
What SARs fund
Funds collected through SARs are used to maintain services and assets at a higher level than in other parts of the City.
This includes:
- Parks, playgrounds, and streetscapes at a higher standard
- More frequent upkeep of verges, garden beds, grass, and playgrounds
- More regular litter collection and road sweeping
- Specialised street lighting
- Public realm facilities such as shelters, BBQs, footpaths, and public art
- Management of waterways and coastline
- Ngarkal Beach replenishment and reshaping
- Groundwater interception drain and 3rd pipe system (Port Coogee)
- Sand bypassing and beach nourishment
- Seawalls, rock revetments, boardwalks, bridges, jetty, and marine structures.
How SARs are calculated and reviewed
SARs are calculated by multiplying a property’s Gross Rental Value (GRV) by the SAR rate in the dollar (RID) set each year in the Annual Budget.
- 2025-26 Port Coogee SAR: $0.01292 RID
- 2025-26 Shoreline SAR: $0.01200 RID
Each year, SARs are reviewed as part of the Annual Budget to ensure charges remain aligned with costs. SAR funds are kept separate from general municipal funds and can only be used for the obligations agreed when the SAR was created.
The reserve account is expected to hold a surplus over time so that long-lived, high-cost assets can be renewed when required. Long-term asset management plans guide these funding requirements.
Frequently asked questions