Victorian Government Backs Down on Emergency Services Levy for Farmers

Victoria Temporarily Backs Down on ‘Emergency Services’ Levy After Hundreds Protest

The Allan Labor government has backed down on a controversial new tax, instead opting to make temporary concessions after hundreds of firefighters and farmers protested on the steps of parliament. On May 30, the government announced it would charge a reduced Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) levy for primary producers in 24 councils across Victoria for the 2025-26 financial year. The reduced rate will be capped at the same amount far…

Farmers to be spared fire tax increase after backlash

Treasurer Jaclyn Symes says capping the levy for primary producers would help farmers stay focused on their drought response and recovery.

Victorian government backs down on emergency services levy for farmers

The Victorian government will cap its Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy at the 2024/25 rate for all primary production properties across the state for the coming financial year.

Drought assistance expanded - Wangaratta Chronicle

THE Victorian government will expand its Drought Package and extend it to farmers statewide to help battle with rapidly deteriorating conditions across the state.Premier Jacinta Allan made the announcement on Friday, saying the latest weather data shows the anticipated “autumn break” farmers anxiously awaited has failed to eventuate, with the window for last minute rain to avoid a failed season closing completely.The news follows weeks of lobbyi…

Colac Otway councillors take stand against emergency tax - Colac Herald

Colac Otway Shire Council will take an official stance against the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, with mayor Jason Schram set to write a strongly-worded letter to senior State Government leaders.