Introduced by the government in May, the ESVF was put in place to fund emergency services across the state, including CFA, Fire Rescue Victoria, SES, Triple Zero Victoria and Emergency Recovery Victoria.
Council has raised concerns to the state government about the “unfair burden” it put on local households, businesses and primary producers.
And while it’s not a council charge, council is required by law to collect it on behalf of the Victorian Government as part of annual rates notices.
In response to the advocacy points, raised not only by Mitchell Shire Council, but also by other shire councils such as Strathbogie and Murrindindi, the Hume Region Local Government Network, and other organisations, the state has implemented a number of adjustments.
The adjustments include:
- Primary production variable rate will remain at 28.7 cents per $1000 of capital improved value for at least two years, as opposed to 83 cents per $1000 CIV;
- Volunteer rebate cap will increase from $5 million to $10 million of CIV, and;
- Fixed charge for non-primary residence properties will remain unchanged until July 2027.
Mitchell Shire Council chief executive Mary Agostino said the changes reflected strong advocacy highlighting the unfair financial impact.
“Council raised deep concerns about the ESVF and the hardship it places on local residents, businesses and primary producers already under pressure,” she said.
“These changes do not remove the burden altogether; however, they provide some relief, especially for farmers and volunteers who play such an important role in protecting our communities.
“The advocacy from councils and peak bodies has clearly been heard. While we welcome these steps, council will continue to advocate with our partners to ensure ongoing improvements to the way the ESVF is administered.”
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