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 farmers paid in 2024-25.
The ESVF was introduced to replace the existing Fire Services Property Levy from July 1, 2025, and according to the government, serve as a more comprehensive funding model for emergency services like fire rescue, the state emergency service, and triple zero.
Under the change, residential households and primary producers would have been subjected to a 100 and 250 percent increase in the charge, respectively.
But the local volunteer firefighters’ union criticised the Labor for using their brand to mask the government’s true intentions—to help pay off the state’s ballooning debt.
In introducing the concession, the Victorian government packaged it as part of their drought support for farmers.
“By capping the rate of the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund for primary production properties, we’re ensuring farmers can remain fully focused on their drought response and recovery,” said Treasurer Jaclyn Symes.
Apart from the reduction in ESVF fees, the state government said it would provide additional funding of $37.7 million (US$24.2 million) to assist farmers with drought management.
Specifically, farmers across the state will be able to access grants of up to $5,000, while those in 11 council areas and parts of West Wimmera impacted by drought will receive $10,000.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, most of Victoria received 20 percent less rainfall in the past two weeks.
It is expected that the lack of rain will continue into June.
