Campaspe Shire Council acknowledges the Victorian Government's announcement to freeze the Emergency Services & Volunteers Fund (ESVF) rate for farmers for a further two years. While this offers immediate relief to primary producers already under significant pressure, Council's position remains unchanged: the ESVF is a State-imposed tax collected via council rates, and its funding model is inequitable and should be scrapped or fundamentally redesigned.
Council also notes the Government's decision to increase the volunteer rebate cap for CFA volunteers from $5 million to $10 million in capital improved value and to defer changes affecting investment properties to 1 July 2027.
Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Daniel Mackrell said these steps recognise some of the concerns raised by rural communities and councils, but they do not resolve the broader fairness issues that persist for many other ratepayers.
"We support properly funded emergency services, and we value our volunteers. However, shifting the burden through a state tax on local rates, with councils acting as collection agents, remains the wrong approach."
Deputy Mayor, Cr Tony Marwood, who is also a local farmer, echoed the sentiments of the mayor.
"Relief for farmers is welcome, but a piecemeal pause is not a solution. We continue to call for funding from consolidated revenue and genuine consultation that delivers a fair model for everyone," said Cr Marwood.
Campaspe Shire Council has consistently opposed the ESVF since its passage, citing disproportionate impacts on rural communities, mental health pressures, lack of local reinvestment assurances, and the administrative burden on councils.
Mayor Mackrell said Council will continue to advocate against the ESVF and urges the community to do the same by contacting their local Members of Parliament to voice their dissatisfaction.
"Our community needs certainty. As a Council, we will keep advocating for an equitable, transparent funding mechanism that doesn't add to the cost‑of‑living pressures on households and businesses or place additional administrative burden on councils," Cr Mackrell added.
For current rates, concessions and rebates, refer to the State Revenue Office website https://www.sro.vic.gov.au/about-us/rates-and-statistics/current-rates/emergency-services-and-volunteers-fund-current-rates .
