Some rates are believed to have increased around $700 over last year’s notice.

This year’s rate notice is the first North Shore residents have received since work was completed on the North Shore Sewerage Scheme.

In information distributed in 2015, council identified rates would increase in line with households coming online.

The Northside Progress Association president Kingsley Searle says residents need to take a close look at their new bill.

“I’ve had a few people make comment about the rate rise in their notice,” he said.

“This is a two-edged sword and we really can’t complain about it.

“From an environmental point of view, our community moving to a fully connected sewerage system is much more important for our oyster industry.

“Back in the day, even if we received a small amount of rain, many of our local residents would be complaining about septic tank overflow.

“This new system rectifies all of those issues.

“As well, given that we no longer require (a septic tank) pump-out, some residents may actually be financially better off.”

Mr Searle said any resident experiencing difficulty in paying their rates should discuss the matter with council.

A spokesperson for Port Macquarie-Hastings Council said any ratepayer having concerns about meeting their rate payment should contact council.

“We always encourage people to contact council if they have any questions or any difficulty in their ability to pay their rates or need some help understanding their rate notice,” the spokesperson said.