The scheme, first introduced in 2023, offers a $500 annual rebate on council rates for qualifying first-home buyers establishing themselves in the region. A motion to extend the initiative was moved at Council’s latest meeting by Cr Grant Rowlands, who has been a strong advocate for encouraging population growth across the region.
Since its inception, five applications have been received and approved. Four were from Port Broughton properties and one from Bute.
- In the first year (2023/24), two applications were approved, both receiving the full annual rebate.
- A third application in 2024/25 received one year’s rebate before the property was then sold.
- Two further applications from Grace Harwar residential blocks in Port Broughton have been approved in 2025/26.
Barunga West Council CEO Maree Wauchope said the continuation of the program would provide an extra incentive for first-home buyers to settle in the Upper Yorke Peninsula.
“Council is committed to making it easier for young people and families to purchase their first home and build a life here,” Ms Wauchope said.
“Extending the rebate strategy ensures we remain competitive and attractive as a place to live, while also supporting our long-term growth strategy.”
Ms Wauchope said the measure complemented broader efforts to deliver new housing opportunities across the region.
“Council’s residential developments in Port Broughton, Bute, Tickera and Fisherman Bay are expanding the choices available to first-home buyers,” Ms Wauchope said.
“By providing rate relief at the same time, we are backing those who make the decision to call Barunga West home.”
The initiative forms part of Council’s wider strategy to promote sustainable population growth, share the rate burden across a growing base of property owners, and strengthen the economy.