revenue management association - rma.org.au · estate trustees and specifically the recovery of...
TRANSCRIPT
The 2009 RMA Country Conference will be held at The Continental Hotel 5 The Esplanade, Cowes Phillip Island on 26th and 27th March 2009.
RMA Newsletter Proudly Sponsored by Forms Express(A Division of Express Promotions Australia Pty Ltd)
Your Best Value Supplier of Rate Notices, Animal Registrations,
Business Forms and Special Mailing Requirements.
For more information contact Sue Calder on Free Call 1300 780 155.
Revenue Management Association
Christmas Edition
Revenue Management Association
Christmas Edition
Message from the Newsletter Co-ordinatorWelcome to our Christmas edition of the RMA Newsletter.
I would like to thank those members who have supplied relevant & interesting news.
Please email me if you would like anything published in our next edition.
Please contact Sue Calder by email [email protected] or phone 03 5227 7418 or 0418 513 975
Go to www.rma.formsexpress.com.au for all current information and updates. Stay tuned for the new design and development of our website.
Job Advertising Available...Should anybody wish to display jobs that arise on the website or other matters of interest on the RMA Bulletin Board please forward an email to our Web Co-ordinator Peter Horne. ([email protected])
Web/CommunicationsPeter Horne
Contents4 RMA Website with Peter Horne
4 Country Conference
4 From the President
4 RMA General Workshop
4 Maddocks
4 Sponsors
4 What's News
4 RMA Committee 2008/2009
4 60 seconds with Loxley Hoffman
Important Dates4Country Conference, The Continental Hotel
5 The Esplanade, Cowes Phillip Island on
26th and 27th March 2009
4NSW Conference Dates 18th, 19th, 20th
March 2009 at Bathurst
4SAIRA Conference 19th, 20th February 2009
at Victor Harbour
RMA Website
Once again there will be a range of activities scheduled for the Thursday afternoon, followed by dinner
that night. The Agenda for both Thursday and Friday will be sent to you shortly.
The Country Conference is without doubt the most popular event on the RMA Calendar. A number
of Sponsorship Packages will be available for the Conference and in previous years, these packages
have been keenly sought. To book your room call: The Continental Hotel Phone 03 5952 2316.
Rooms are $135 per night, 50 rooms are being held until the 26th February 2009.
Quote RMA Conference.
This is your opportunity to have your company name associated with our most prestigious event.
Attached are the details of each Sponsorship Package.
To register your interest please contact our Sponsorship Co-ordinator, Les Mitchell on
(03) 9932 1027 or at [email protected]
To help recognize our Corporate Sponsors, we are putting together a ‘Conference Pack’ for members to
be distributed at the meeting. If you have anything you would like to add to these packs to promote
your business, could you please contact Kerrie Wellington to arrange delivery prior to the conference.
Items can be sent to Kerrie directly to City of Darebin, 274 Gower St, Preston.
Country Conference 2009
Sponsorship
Another busy 12 months has passed with the Executive Committee and members having completed a full year of activities as well as our day to day responsibilities for our respective employers.
The first Executive Committee meeting held at Hobsons Bay on the 2nd October 2007 saw the appointment of individual members of the executive to fill the various roles of President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Minute Secretary etc and establish a plan of activities for the coming year. This year saw Les Mitchell join the executive replacing outgoing member Bryan Mitchell who decided not to seek re-election because of his continued work commitments to Moira Shire Council.
Wednesday 28th November saw a larger than expected number of us attended our Local Government Training Module 6 at Moonee Ponds which dealt with the Council Elections scheduled for November 2008. The day was designed to give members information and a grounding in the processes required going forward to achieve a successful approach to the coming November council election. Presentations by Steve Tully Electoral Commissioner, Liz Williams Deputy Commissioner, Paul Strickland Manager Electoral Enrolment and Merilyn Yemm Products & Services Team Leader covered topics from Election Administration, Council’s Statutory Responsibilities, Representative Reviews, Proportional Representation and Preferential Voting System, Legislative changes to voter entitlements and roll production.
As is the case each year Christmas and the New Year rolled around, some of us where fortunate to take a break and come back refreshed for the New Year.
As indicated last year I continue to make a conscious effort to try and have meetings and an agenda that specifically focus on the issues we are all facing in our work environment. These topics directly reflect your feedback and I hope members have gained benefits
from this.Again this year in the RMA has sent representatives to the Local Authority Revenue Management Authority Queensland, the South Australia Institute of Rate Administrators and the NSW Rating Professionals Conferences. All organizations have a large representation of Councils from throughout their states attend these events. As previously indicated unlike the RMA their conferences are staged yearly and are the only opportunity for all their members to meet as they have a regional group structure which meet on a more regular and location basis.
Those that attended on behalf of the RMA have gained an invaluable insight and developed an understanding of the issues being faced by Local Government Revenue Managers Australia wide. This provides and results in members having broader experience within our industry. Likewise representatives from these organizations attended our country conference in Bendigo and I am sure those of you who had an opportunity to speak with these representatives would have gained an understanding of the roles, responsibility and structures that they operate in. I would hope that the executive committee continues this practice in the coming years. Additionally I take the opportunity to thank Australian Receivables Limited in their ongoing partnership with the RMA in sponsorship of our development fund which allows us to undertake these initiatives.
The country conference at Bendigo in March this year was well supported by members. The committee selects these location following surveying members and trying to consider the distance issue involved in getting to and from the venues. The feedback received was very positive and as usual Thursday’s events were extremely successful and provided all participants with an opportunity to network and get to know each other. Planning for the 2009 Country Conference is well advanced already and detail is hoped to be released soon.
From the President
The annual “Bob Patterson” address was delivered by
Mr Damian Drum MLC Northern Region. I am sure
those in attendance found the address both
enlightening and amusing.
Our sponsors of coarse play a major role in our ability
to put together these events and without them it
would be extremely difficult. I take this opportunity
again to thank them all for their contribution over the
past 12 months.
At the start of June many of you took advantage of a
training session arrange by the RMA in conjunction
with ML& C and Maddocks Lawyers. This day
consisted of three sessions. The first addressed the of
process involved in dealing with Deceased Estates and
Estate Trustees and specifically the recovery of rates,
appointment of a personal representative and debt
recovery where no probate or letter of administration
exists. Session two covered the topic of Constitutional
Challenges and the validity of Local Government Act
1989 (Vic) and finally concluded with a session on
Section 181 and the preliminary and statutory processes
to be followed in respect of this section of the Act.
Indication from members was that this was a very
informative and worthwhile session.
In July many of us attended meetings across the state
held by the Department of Human Services State
Concessions unit. Whilst many seemed a little
dismayed at what was presented at these sessions I
believe that this was as a result of the lack of research
on behalf of the presenters in regard to the role and
process as it applies to Local Government as opposed
to other utility providers.
The unit did however I believe received a clear message
from the Local Government sector that for years now
we have been extremely frustrated with the process
involved in the delivery of the state concession. These
meetings hopefully have re-established the need for
both parties to work closer to ensure that Local
Government can deliver a successful outcome for the
State Government. The RMA executive clearly indicate
at the Melbourne meeting that it wanted to be
involved in this review process and is awaiting further
information at this stage.
In closing I would again indicate that the Executive
Committee is always keen to receive your views and
ideas and I would welcome your contact as would
other Committee members. We are keen to bring you
presentations which specifically concern issue facing
Local Government Revenue staff as well as personal
development sessions that broaden our management
and leadership roles within our organizations.
A big thankyou to all of the Executive Committee
members for their personal support and their individual
contributions in helping the association run smoothly
over the past 12 months and I look forward to the
challenges 2009 might bring.
Glendon Dickinson, F.R.M.A.
President
Ph. 03 555 94800
From the President – Continued
December RMA General Workshop Day
MaddocksCouncil rates notices: don't let formatting preclude recovery of arrears Councils' rate and valuation notices need to be well formatted and easy to read. A rate payer should be able to clearly distinguish when rate arrears are payable, and when rates and charges for the current rating period are due.
The layout of Councils' rate and valuation notices can lead to confusion as to when arrears are due, and may, in some circumstances, provide a ratepayer, against whom Council has instituted recovery proceedings, with grounds for a defence.
Total amount due vs total amount payable in fullIn accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1989 (Vic) Council notices must give ratepayers the option to pay rates and charges for the current rating period in a lump sum (also referred to as total amount due / payable in full), or by quarterly instalments.
However, when calculating the optional lump sum amount, some Councils add the rates arrears to the general rates and charges payable for the current rating period. For the current financial year, the lump sum payment option is due in February 2009.
As a result, the notice provides a ratepayer with the option to not have to pay the arrears, which are in fact immediately payable to avoid further interest and legal costs, until February 2009.
General arrears statements
Most Council rate and valuation notices tend to
include a general statement about arrears. By
way of example, statements are often along the
lines that 'any arrears shown on this notice are
due immediately to avoid further interest and
legal costs'. In our view, in most instances such
statements are inconsistent with the rest of the
notice that expressly provides the ratepayer with
an option to pay the total amount due in full,
which includes the rate arrears by February
2009.
Recovery proceedings
Councils are not legally precluded from
commencing proceedings against ratepayers to
recover arrears rates and legal costs despite the
above mentioned issues. However, Councils
should note it may be open to ratepayers to
defend the proceedings on grounds relating to
the construction of the rate and valuation notice.
A ratepayer could argue Council waived its rights
to immediately recover the rate arrears by issuing
a rate and valuation notice that provides the
ratepayer with the option to not have to pay the
total amount, including arrears, until February
2009.
We are of the opinion such a defence may be
successful in court, in which case Council would
be liable to pay the defendant's costs.
Maddocks - ContinuedHow should rate and valuation notices be set out?In addition to the requirements for rate and valuation notices set out in the Local Government Act and Local Government (General) Regulations 2004 (Vic), we suggest the notices should deal with rate arrears immediately due and general rates and charges payable for the current rating year separately.
When setting out payment options, the optional lump sum amount (payable for the current financial year by February 2009) should not include the arrears amount.
Rather, the notice should clearly and separately identify the arrears amount immediately payable.
General statements regarding arrears and interest should be retained in rate and valuation notices.For further information, or to discuss appropriate formatting of your rate and valuation notices, please contact a member of our Debt Recovery team below.
Sue Simmons | Operations Manager Tel 61 3 9288 [email protected]
Jenny Williams | Account Manager Tel 61 3 9288 [email protected]
Maddocks140 William Street | Melbourne Victoria 3000 www.maddocks.com.au
REVENUE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATIONCOUNTRY CONFERENCE MARCH 2009
What's NewsCongratulations to Rod Leith from The City of Ballarat for
being rewarded a life fellow by all RMA Members at the last
AGM . Well Done!!!
Congratulation to Ian Holland who has now retired from
Frankston City Council. We wish Ian and Wilhemina the very
best for the future.
Congratulations to Kevin Hatton for being appointed the
Revenue Coordinator at Frankston City Council.
Congratulations to Leanne Yearsley who has been appointed
the Rates and Revenue Coordinator at The Greater City of
Geelong.
We would also like to wish Nicole Rogers from Forms
Express the very best as Nicole and Daryl are expecting their
first child on the 12th of December 2008. Nicole will be
taking 12 months maternity leave.
Welcome to Maria Corica who will be looking after Nicole’s
job in her absence.
RMA Members Please Note:Cancellation Policy: The Revenue Management
Association (RMA) reserves the right to cancel an event
and notify all those registered of the cancellation.
In the case that you cannot attend an event for which
you are registered, a substitute is encouraged/welcome
to attend in your place.
The RMA reserves the right to levy any costs it has
incurred for a registered participant as a result of the
registered participant not attending an event where
that person has failed to give the RMA at least 2 days
notice prior to the date of the planned event of their
non attendance.
All cancellations and substitutes must be faxed in
writing to the Secretary RMA on (03) 9261 4840 or
email [email protected].
Insurance: The RMA will not be held responsible for
any claims regarding travel, accommodation and/or
registration costs, nor injury or loss of property. Personal
insurance should be obtained by each participant
through the organisation they are representing at any
RMA event.
We are an innovative provider of receivables management services, offering a return to traditional service, supported by leading edge technology and highly motivated, experienced and professional staff.
ARL is a Quality Accredited company, using systems designed for Compliance with all aspects of the receivables management process, while delivering unique and sophisticated facilities.
ARL offers a network of offices with City and regional experience and facilities, for all Victorian Councils.
ARL offers a complete local government package plus innovation and commitment , demonstrated by:
ARL LOCAL GOVERNMENT TRAININGARL in conjunction with the RMA facilitate local government training, focusing on the development and continuing education
in revenue collections.
RMA DEVELOPMENT FUNDARL are proudly supporting an RMA initiative that see a share of ARL’s revenue from work completed for Victorian RMA
members allocated to the RMA; used for funding of development and education programs as selected by the RMA Executive.
For more information please contact Sia Patouras (Metro) on 1300 135 284 or Luke Bamkin (Regional) on 1300 135 284
w w w . a u s t r a l i a n r e c e i v a b l e s . c o m . a u
ISO 9001 Lic13946Standards Australia
w w w . a r l c o l l e c t . c o m . a u
www
DIRECTDEBIT
“AUTOMATED” PAYMENTSSAVE COUNCILS
BOTH TIME AND MONEY!!Contact Bruce Thomas on Tel: (03) 8627 4455
In Person (Over the Counter)
By Mail
By Phone IVR (Credit / Charge Card)
By Internet (Credit / Charge Card)
By Direct Debit (Cheque / Savings)
Local Council - Payment Methods
RMA Committee 2008/2009President - Glendon DickinsonWarrnambool City CouncilPh 5559 4827 Fax 5559 4900Email [email protected]
Vice President/Web Communications - Peter HorneBrimbank City CouncilPh 9249 4324 Fax 9249 4327Email [email protected]
Meeting/Legal Training Co-ordinator - Rod LeithCity of BallaratPh 5320 5518 Fax 5332 8122Email [email protected]
Secretary - Kerrie WellingtonCity of DarebinPh 8470 8026 Fax 8470 8438Email [email protected]
RMA Committee 2008/2009 continued...Treasurer - Megan WoodsMoreland City CouncilPh 92402210 FAX: 92401248 Email [email protected]
Minute Secretary - Chris DoupeMitchell ShirePh 5234 6244 Fax 5734 6200Email [email protected]
Newsletter Co-ordinator - Sue CalderForms ExpressPh 5227 7396 Fax 5227 7395Email [email protected]
Sponsorship - Les MitchellHobsons Bay City CouncilPh 9932 1027 Fax 9932 1039Email [email protected]
03 9870 5177
60 Seconds with Loxley Hoffman - West WimmeraStar Sign: Scorpio
Nickname: Stacks or Kraut
Person you would most like to sit next to on a plane and why: Barack Obama – the man of the moment, would be a wonderful experience.
Best thing you have ever done/bought for your mum and dad: Both parents are deceased but looking back I'm glad I was able to take them on various travelling trips.
Most memorable punishment from your parents and what was it for: Banned from playing junior football for 2 weeks for starting a fire in our garage.
Your best and worst memory from school: Best: – My last years break up social Worst – Exams, when not prepared.
Favourite drink: Beer
Your ultimate holiday destination: South Pacific Islands
What would you never eat again?: Sheeps Brains
What is your greatest fear?: Heights
What is your ideal job outside of Local Government?: Professional horse trainer
What would you never leave home without?: My wallet
What is your motto?: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you
Favourite music/band /singer?: Rock 'n' Roll / AC DC / Elvis
What are you reading at present?: A man called Possum
Favourite TV show?: Any direct telecast of sport, usually on Foxtel, Football, cricket, tennis, horse racing etc
Funniest person to work with?: Russell Rogers–Finance Manager
Local GovernmentForms Express is a total solutions provider of “Outsourced” Billing and Delivery Services to Local Government throughout Australia.
Forms Express has provided a service to Local Government for 10 years and has grown to become a major supplier for the billing and mailing services exceeding 150 clients within Local Government.
Future DirectionsOur Vision is to establish long-term relationships with Local Government. Utilising the latest technologies and world best practices will enable us to meet all your billing needs today and into the future! A recent improvement to the delivery of our services include the development of LGS – which is an internally developed processing system, designed to move away from an incumbent operator dependant system to a robust, streamlined and flexible system. The unique aspect of the system is its ability to interpret customer data.Recent new products include the Express Bill Print and Bill Archive services that link up with the LGS system.
Providing services to Local Government for over 10 years
Printing and DistributionA One stop-Shop Solution• RatesandValuationNotices• Instalment/Supplementary/Final/ReminderNotices• WaterAccounts• AnimalRenewal/OverdueNotices• CorporateBrochures• DebtorInvoices/Statements• OtherBillingandMailingServices-firelevynotices,courtesyinfringement
notices, parking permits, pre-printed cheques, payroll advice slips general council mail outs
• BaseStock,Envelope,BrochureDesignandPrintingbasedonyourindividual requirements
• OurProcessingEnginetoreceiveandprocessdataefficientlyanderror-free• ConsistentdeliveryofserviceonthebackofanISO9000certification• TheAgilitywithwhichwereacttoachangeincircumstances• AbilitytocontinuallyuseInnovationtoimprovethesolution.• DPIDbar-codingforDiscountedPostageCosts
Contact Us...Please contact one of our Sales Executive Sue Calder for more information
Phone: (03) 5227 7418
Email: [email protected]