Joining the Victorian Regional Chamber Alliance, C4EM has urgent concerns about the levy’s increase on businesses’ rates notices, which have risen 63 per cent on average.
A sample of VRCA members found average increases of 114 per cent in hospitality, 112 per cent in professional services, 60 per cent in retail and 34 per cent in manufacturing.
Amid rising costs and tough trading conditions, regional chambers have called on the Victorian Government to reconsider the levy on already struggling communities.
VRCA chair Jodie Gillett disputed the government’s actions before introducing the levy, and said it came at a difficult time for members.
“We question the government’s consultation process around this introduced levy and wonder whether engagement with a range of businesses was undertaken,” she said.
‘‘It is very clear to our members that this increased levy will add significantly to financial stress in the current environment.’’
The government introduced the levy in July, replacing the Fire Services Property Levy, to fund a wider range of emergency services.
Property owners contribute to the levy via council rates notices, with funds going towards the CFA, Triple Zero Victoria and VICSES, among others.
According to Rural Councils Victoria, the levy will raise $139 million from rural communities annually.
VRCA members have implored the government to acknowledge the current crisis in business communities and explore ways to make doing business easier and cheaper.
12°C