Ararat Rural City Council expresses its disappointment and concern following the Victorian Government's passing of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) legislation.
The Treasurer of Victoria announced during yesterday's parliamentary debate that, following consultation with local councils, the Victorian Farmers Federation, and emergency services, the legislation will now propose a reduced rate payable for primary producers.
From 1 July 2025, the new tax will now impose a 150% rate increase on primary producers (previously proposed at 189%), whilst residential and commercial ratepayers will remain the same at 99% and 100% increases respectively, and no changes were proposed to the 64% increase for industrial properties.
Following the amended rate payable for primary producers, and based on current property valuations, the new ESVF is projected to almost double the amount Council collects for the Victorian Government compared to the previous Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL). This represents a significant increase from approximately $2.7 million in the current 2024/25 financial year to approximately $5 million in the upcoming 2025/26 financial year.
Council maintains its position to firmly advocate against the ESVF, recognising that this new tax will have a significant impact on the Ararat Rural City community as well as on the broader economy.
"Whilst we have a legal obligation to collect this tax, we are deeply reluctant in having to do so," says Ararat Rural City Council CEO, Dr Tim Harrison. "We want our residents to know that we will do everything within our capacity to continue to fight this tax."
"This new tax is a complete travesty for our community," says Ararat Rural City Council Mayor, Cr Jo Armstrong. "It will impact every single resident, from our farmers and those on fixed incomes to local businesses, inevitably causing significant mental and financial hardship and further straining our local economy. We stand united with our community and will relentlessly advocate against this profoundly unjust and damaging impost."
With concern for the potential impact on the mental health and wellbeing of its residents, Council wishes to ensure those affected are aware of the following available support services:
- For mental health support, residents are encouraged to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au
- For financial assistance and wellbeing support, the Rural Financial Counselling Service can be reached at 1300 735 578 or via their website at wswrcs.com.au
