Frequently asked questions
How do RLPBs work?
Each of the state’s Rural Lands Protection Boards operate as bodies corporate, under the Rural Lands Protection Act 1998. A Board usually consists of 8 directors who are elected every four years by ratepayers.
How are they financed?
Most Board income is derived from annual rates paid by rural landholders. Boards also charge for the distribution of certain merchandise and the provision of various services.
What staff do they have?
Each RLPB typically employs a manager, district veterinarian, rangers and customer service officers. Some RLPBs in the far west of NSW use the services of a DPI vet.
Are RLPBs part of the NSW Department of Primary Industries?
No, they are separate to the DPI. There is a close working relationship between the two organisations, formalised in a Memorandum of Understanding.
Who are RLPBs responsible to?
Boards are responsible to the State Council of Rural Lands Protection Boards, a body of nine directors elected from each of the regions in NSW. State Council is responsible to the NSW Minister for Primary Industries.
In addition to its governing role, State Council represents the RLPB network in a range of industry and government based policy making arenas at a state and federal level and operates an advisory committee system involving RLPB directors and staff.
How are my rates calculated?
Rates are based on the assessed carrying capacity of the land. Each Board sets its rates annually based on the financial requirements of the Board for the coming year.
What’s an assessed carrying capacity?
The carrying capacity is an estimate, worked out by the local RLPB, of the number of stock a property would normally carry and is based on stock units per hectare.
What if I disagree with the assessed carrying capacity?
You can lodge an appeal with your local Board. If you still disagree with the Board a further appeal may then be directed to the Local Land Board.
I’m not rural - council zoned my property residential. Do I still have to pay rates?
Local government zoning is not relevant to RLPB districts.
If I pay rates, do I get baits and other things free?
Rates allow for the provision of services by the Board. Most merchandise (e.g., baits, stock signs) are charged on a cost recovery basis for ratepayers.
Why do I need to use a private vet if my Board has a District Vet?
The RLPB vet provides a herd/flock health service whereas private practitioners are responsible for treating individual animals.
What is an Annual Return? Why is it so important?
Annual returns gather information about stock held on the land as at 30 June. They contain information essential for livestock disease control and surveillance. They take only a few minutes to complete but are invaluable in the event of a disease outbreak.
How do I have a say in how my RLPB is run?
As a ratepayer, you are eligible to nominate to become a director in the respective division of your Board’s district. Board elections are held every four years. Most Boards meet once a month and information about meetings or projects can be obtained from your local RLPB office.
Which RLPB district am I in?
When you receive your rates notice, the name of your local Rural Lands Protection Board will appear on the notice. You can also refer to our maps of local districts.
What responsibilities do I have as a ratepayer and landholder?
There are a number of ways you can assist your Local Rural Lands Protection Board to help you. There are also some other responsibilities which come with being a landholder, as stated under legislation.
Lodge an annual return
Annual Returns are mailed out in June and must be returned by 31 July. These contain valuable information regarding stock numbers, property details and other data which can be vital in the event of a situation such as the 2007 equine influenza outbreak.
Keep your Board informed of changes in address, occupancy or ownership
Ratepayers must advise their RLPB of a change of postal address within a month of the change.
Pay rates
Rates notices are sent out each year and must be paid by the due date. Interest is charged on overdue rates.
Control pests on your land
This is a requirement under legislation. For assistance in carrying this out, contact your local RLPB.
Identify stock
You have legal responsibilities for stock identifcation. There are a number of different types of identification which may apply. Your local RLPB can advise you further.
Report notifiable diseases
You are obliged to report any notifiable disease to your local RLPB or the Department of Primary Industries. For information on notifiable diseases contact your RLPB.
Take care when moving stock
If you are planning to move stock on a public road or TSR either by vehicle or walking, you must organise the appropriate paperwork with your RLPB, display stock warning signs and observe certain safety requirements.