Last rates instalment due

“We understand it is not desirable to have the customer service counter closed for in-person inquiries but the decision to close the counter temporarily has not been taken lightly,” council director corporate services Chris Teitzel said.

“We had some resignations right on Christmas, and more recently, plus unexpected leave.

“The majority of the remaining staff are new, and while we have filled most of the vacancies there is a steep learning curve to get everyone up to speed.

“At times we have only had two or three staff a day rather than six and as historically most inquiries are via the phone we had to make the difficult decision to close the doors temporarily.”

You can pay rates in person at any Post Office, Mr Teitzel said.

You can also pay via internet or telephone banking or by visiting council’s website for online payments.

“The website provides a streamlined way to resolve issues or make an inquiry or payment,” Mr Teitzel said.

“The easiest way to find these sections is on the home page where the most common topics are displayed. We also have translated information in eight languages other than English to assist our multicultural community.”