Moffatdale and Cloyna have recorded decreases of up to 50 per cent. Mr Cremer said primary production unimproved valuations in the localities of Moffatdale, Redgate and Moondooner had increased by 15 per cent, while primary production values in the remainder of the shire had not changed. The valuations, which take effect on June 30 this year, provide an annual snapshot of unimproved land values at 1 October 2000 and reflect the state of the local property market at that time. Of the 124 local governments in Queensland, there were 37 that had sufficient market movement for new valuations to be issued this year. Mr Cremer said it was important to clarify some misconceptions about the relationship between valuations and setting of council rates.
Valuations are only one of many guides available to councils.
However, valuations are used by the Office of State Revenue for levying land tax. Amendments to the Valuation of Land Act 1944 mean that some landholders who hold land under a lease, licence or permit from the State will receive two valuation notices this year. Details of the 1 October 2000 Annual Valuation can be inspected until 9 April 2001 at Murgon Shire Council office, Stephens Street, Murgon, during business hours. Objections can be lodged to valuations within 42 days of receipt of the notices and can be sent to Department of Natural Resources and Mines, P O Box 15, Kingaroy Qld 4610.