As of this year Council is required to collect the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) on behalf of the Victorian Government.
This fee is on top of Council rates and is paid directly to the Victorian Government.
Mayor John Dumaresq said he was disappointed that the State Government pursued this levy.
"Council strongly opposed this tax because it's not connected to the services we provide, it is unrelated to our needs and is an extra burden for ratepayers, especially our commercial and industrial property owners, rural ratepayers and primary producers," Cr Dumaresq said.
"This is really going hit hard on our local cafes, gift stores and cellars – our small business owners," he continued.
"It's frustrating because ratepayers cannot choose whether or not to pay the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, as a proportion of any rate payment will automatically allocated to this tax," Cr Dumaresq said.
ESVF will be replacing the Fire Services Property Levy with funds being put into a broader range of emergency services that respond to fires, floods, storms and other emergency services such as Triple Zero Victoria.
"Though I can appreciate that these vital services need funding, I do not believe Council should be collecting and enforcing this levy," Cr Dumaresq said.
Council rates support more than 100 services for the Nillumbik Shire community, while also maintaining and improving its resources, infrastructure and assets.
The first instalment of the rates notice is due 30 September. To learn more about Council rates, visit the Rates section.
