Cow manure was delivered to the Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan’s parliamentary office as a form of protest against the government’s controversial fire services levy. Reports indicate that Liberal frontbencher Bev McArthur facilitated the delivery of a pink box containing manure to highlight dissent toward the levy. Premier Allan condemned the act as “disgraceful” and offensive, pointing out that it breached workplace safety protocols. She has urged Opposition Leader Brad Battin to take a stand on the matter, questioning whether he would support the behaviour of his colleagues or denounce it.
Battin responded by distancing himself from the incident, stating he had no prior knowledge of it and did not outright condemn the act, though he acknowledged the anger among the farming community regarding new taxes. He asserted that McArthur has the full backing to represent her constituents, promising to advocate for regional Victorians.
The fallout from the recent state budget continues as the Allan government, despite achieving its first budget surplus since 2020, faces criticism over mounting debt expected to rise to a staggering $194 billion by 2028-29. Many significant projects are also reported to be behind schedule, creating further discontent. Among these is the much-anticipated Myki overhaul, which has been delayed by 18 months. Allan defended the budget plan, stating it is designed for a staged implementation of improvements.
As the situation unfolds, the Premier’s calls for accountability and a resolution to the public outcry surrounding the fire services levy reflect a broader tension within the state’s political landscape. The incident at her office serves to underscore the divide between government actions and public sentiment, particularly among the farming communities.