Statement from Cardinia Shire Mayor, Cr Jack Kowarzik
Statement from Cardinia Shire Mayor, Cr Jack Kowarzik
"In light of recent media and social media coverage, it's crucial that Cardinia Shire Council makes our position on the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) perfectly clear. Council would like to reassure our community that we stand firm with our concerns about the detrimental impact this levy will have on our community.
"We have consistently expressed concerns about the impact that the new ESVF levy will have, and this stance remains unchanged.
"We are acutely aware of the ongoing cost of living pressures facing our community, and have made our concerns known in relation to the impact of the ESVF. We have joined with our local government colleagues to advocate on this matter and highlight the sector's concerns. We believe that a united approach is the most effective way to share our concerns, and this is demonstrated by our recent actions including submitting a motion at the MAV State Council in May.
"Cardinia Shire Council is committed to advocating for what our community needs and deserves. We will continue to work with the local government sector to advocate on this matter and to highlight our collective concerns.
"Under the Fire Services Property Amendment (Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund) Act 2025, Council is required to collect this levy on behalf of the Victorian Government.
"We are in support of sufficient funding for our emergency services, noting that the ESVF provides funding for a broader range of services than the previous Fire Services Property Levy, however we are concerned about the financial pressure the ESVF places on our ratepayers.
"And while we welcome the Victorian Government's decision to hold the variable rate for primary production properties at 2024–25 levels for the coming financial year, we implore the government to take this time to consider a long-term solution that reduces the impact on farmers.
"I would like to reassure the Cardinia Shire community that Council remains committed to continuing to advocate on this matter to seek a fair outcome for all."
