Council has welcomed recent changes to the State Government's Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) following consistent advocacy by Council, the Municipal Association of Victoria, the Hume Region Local Government Network and other organisations.
The ESVF was introduced by the Victorian Government in May 2025 to fund emergency services across Victoria, including CFA, Fire Rescue Victoria, SES, Triple Zero Victoria and Emergency Recovery Victoria.
It is not a Council charge, however Council is required by law to collect it on behalf of the State Government as part of annual rates notices.
Council has consistently raised concerns that the fund places an unfair burden on households, businesses and primary producers already dealing with difficult economic conditions.
In response, the Victorian Government has confirmed several adjustments:
- Primary production variable rate will remain at 28.7 cents per $1000 of capital improved value (CIV) for at least two years
- Volunteer rebate cap will increase from $5 million to $10 million of CIV
- Fixed charge for non-primary residence properties will remain unchanged until July 2027
Mitchell Shire Council CEO Mary Agostino said the changes reflect strong advocacy highlighting the unfair financial impact.
"Council raised deep concerns about the ESVF and the hardship it places on local residents, businesses and primary producers already under pressure," she said.
"These changes do not remove the burden altogether, however they provide some relief especially for farmers and volunteers who play such an important role in protecting our communities.
"The advocacy from councils and peak bodies has clearly been heard. Whilst we welcome these steps, Council will continue to advocate with our partners to ensure ongoing improvements to the way the ESVF is administered."
