Shire investigating new rating model on vacant land in push to reduce land banking and encourage development

A South West shire has voted to investigate adding a new rating to vacant land to encourage development and reduce land banking. Shire of Harvey councillors voted unanimously to support the motion for the shire to investigate the feasibility and impact of introducing a vacant land differential rate within the region, which would be considered for the 2026-2027 budget. The motion was put forward by Cr Dakota Krispyn, who said the move was not about rushing into a decision or unfairly penalising landowners, but was instead about fairness, transparency, and good governance. “All we are asking for here is information and a clear picture about how many vacant residential, commercial and industrial lots exist across our shire, what impact they have on our communities, and what options council has to address these issues fairly,” he said. “Vacant land, when left undeveloped for long periods, creates challenges, holds back housing supply, slows down business growth and means that other ratepayers, families, businesses and developers investing in our town carry a greater share of the cost of essential services.” Cr Krispyn said by investigating the new rating scheme, the council would be showing it took the matter seriously. “At its heart, this is about making sure our rating system is equitable, that we are planning responsibly for the future, and that we have the facts in front of us before making any decisions,” he said. In a subsequent council update, Shire president Michelle Campbell said the purpose of the investigation was to encourage timely development and reduce land banking within the shire. “We have also asked the shire to be mindful to those landowners that are facing development delays beyond their control,” she said. “This is only an investigation, and the shire will seek public comment and council will review the research and community feedback.” Cr Campbell said the community would have a chance to comment soon, and future updates would be published on the shire’s social media accounts and website.