Hi Christina, 

We would not provide specific information about the property to this person, such as the assessment number or the balance owing unless they provided some documentary evidence they have a POA or written authorisation from the ratepayer that they can act on their behalf. 

We would give general information such as our payment options, including Bpay reference numbers.  

However, in saying that we will possibly advise them that if they know the property address and owner name, they could send a chq payment for an amount they choose in the mail with written advice that they wish to pay the rates for ** property address ** for ** owner** and it would get receipted.  If they were to attend a council office in person and say at the counter can I please pay the rates for ** owner name and property address ** i believe that our frontline staff would receipt the monies.  If that person disclosed they weren't the owner of the property and asked for the amount owing, we should not be advising them the balance but instead say "I'm sorry as you are not the owner or authorised we cant advise you the balance but happy to receipt what monies you decide to pay".  

I hope this information is helpful. 

Cheers 

Donna

Douglas Shire Council