US EditionVictorian Councils 'Deeply Reluctant' to Enforce Controversial Levy
- Victorian councils are deeply reluctant to enforce the newly increased Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy starting July 1, 2025, amid widespread backlash.
- The state government increased the levy to raise revenue for emergency services due to growing calls for fire, flood, and extreme weather assistance, though this intensifies opposition from farmers and volunteers.
- Many farmers, drought-affected communities, and CFA volunteers argue the tax unfairly burdens those providing emergency services and highlighted mental and financial hardship, citing recent suicides linked to the levy.
- A petition started a week ago has gained nearly 14,000 signatures, calling on the government to halt this 'heartless tax' which is expected to raise $2.1 billion over three years plus an extra $610.9 million in 2025-26.
- The levy’s introduction may prompt farmers to leave rural areas and cause political ramifications for the state government, while councils face difficulty fulfilling collection duties amid vocal local opposition.
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