In recognition of the deep unfairness in Victoria's tax system, the Allan Labor Government has accepted the year-long representations from the Liberals and Nationals and agreed to legislative amendments that will stop victims being charged land tax when they flee their homes because of domestic violence or natural disaster.
Under the current tax system, victims of domestic violence and natural disaster, who flee their homes, are being sent land tax bills by the Allan Labor Government because it is technically no longer their principal place of residence. The system is unfair, and the Liberals and Nationals have repeatedly called on the Allan Labor Government to fix it.
Changes in the State Taxation Acts Amendment Bill 2025, including opposition amendments accepted by the Government, will mean that those most vulnerable will no longer be charged tax after they flee for their lives.
Shadow Treasurer, James Newbury, said: "We have seen shocking examples of Victorians being sent land tax bills simply because they have fled for their lives. When you flee your home because of domestic violence, or because of natural disaster, the last thing you need is this Labor Government sending you a tax bill.
"Because the system was deeply unfair, the Liberals and Nationals have tirelessly advocated to see victims exempt from unfairness in the tax system. And we acknowledge that after significant delays, the Government has finally supported the Coalition on these measures.
"There is so much that is wrong with our tax system, but these changes, on behalf of vulnerable Victorians, are a small but desperately needed fix."
