SOUTHERN Moreton Bay island ratepayers will be charged a TransLink levy of $85.46 a year, after Redland City Council approved its 2013-14 budget last week.
The average island infrastructure charge of $200 will drop $85, to an average annual $115, to compensate island ratepayers.
Mayor Karen Williams said SMBI residents would get access to TransLink at no extra cost to their rate bill and, at the same time, could expect property values to increase.
"The TransLink levy is applied to properties because I believe property values will improve over time as a result of better accessibility," Cr Williams said.
"The islands will become more affordable places to live for those working on the mainland or those looking to work on the mainland."
Infrastructure charges are calculated on a differential basis using property valuations.
Island divisional councillor Mark Edwards said the loss of revenue for infrastructure projects on the islands was not of concern as many projects had been completed in the past year.
