A Liberal Party election commitment to cap council rates has drawn criticism from Eyre Peninsula councils, amid warnings it could threaten the long‑term sustainability of regional local government.
The Liberals say the policy would provide certainty and cost‑of‑living relief for households, pointing to council rate rises in some areas that have exceeded inflation. The party has also flagged a new infrastructure funding program to support regional councils if elected.
However, the Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association argues rate capping has failed in other jurisdictions and could worsen financial pressures on councils already under strain.
The association has warned the policy could lead to reduced services and delays to essential infrastructure upgrades across the region.
The proposal is shaping as a key point of debate ahead of the state election.
