Specifically, on average, each Taree "farmland" property will see their rates increase by $101.65, permanently. Great Lakes properties by $379.42.

These additional rates collected will be utilised to subsidise the rates of Gloucester "farmland" properties, on average, by $766.52.

Bear in mind these figures are averages, so some will pay even more and some will get even larger subsidies.

There are many implications inherent in the proposal currently before council, for example, Taree coastal communities (Crowdy, Harrington, Old Bar, Wallabi Point, Hallidays Point) having their rates increased with the southern coastal communities (from Green Point to Hawks Nest) receiving subsidies, permanently.

MidCoast Council will say "We are currently working towards a single rates structure across the MidCoast Council region. Rates harmonisation will provide consistency, equity and a fairer distribution of rates across the entire region."

However, this proposal seeks to change the rates at which all properties are assessed and in so doing have permanent impacts to many ratepayers. It is therefore important that ratepayers understand the implications on them of these proposed changes and voice any concerns before it is too late.

These changes, coupled with rate increases this year due to council applying land value changes, will result in my rates increasing by 21.7 per cent for the 2020/2021 year alone.

With your current rates notice, and the proposal on council's website, you have all the information you need to do the maths for yourself. Ensure you are happy with the impacts on you.

I am not happy Jan and I do not see any consistency, equity or fairer distribution, at least as it impacts me.