A significant protest against the newly enacted emergency services levy in Victoria is poised to overshadow Treasurer Jaclyn Symes’ first budget presentation. Farmers and Country Fire Authority (CFA) volunteers are anticipated to gather outside parliament following the passage of a multibillion-dollar tax aimed at supporting emergency services.
The levy increase has sparked outrage, particularly among regional farmers and firefighters who rely on CFA support. Almost 100 brigades participated in job walk-offs in protest against the measure, which critics argue will impose excessive financial burdens on landholders—especially those in agriculture—where some may face increases costing tens of thousands of dollars.
Premier Jacinta Allan has staunchly defended the levy, asserting that it addresses the increasing demands on emergency services like the State Emergency Service (SES) and the triple-zero call system. She described it as necessary for the sustainability of fire services.
The levy has been in place since 2012 but will see rates more than doubled under new legislation. While farmers in drought-affected areas may receive some exemptions and slightly lowered rates, concerns persist about the overall impact, especially for those with multiple land titles.
Despite considerable dissent, including public protests, the Allan government secured passage of the tax just in time for the upcoming budget, facilitated by negotiations with the Greens involving certain concessions. However, tensions remain high, with local leaders, including CFA officials, expressing alarm over the pressure this places on volunteers amid an already challenging environment for rural communities.
CFA acting chief officer Garry Cook expressed the strain volunteers are under, worrying that the increased tax could exacerbate existing stress levels in rural areas. As protests are expected to coincide with the state budget rollout, leaders in regional communities are calling for governmental reconsideration, fearing lasting damage to already vulnerable agricultural sectors. Strathbogie Shire Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy warned that the new taxation structure could disrupt community cohesion, predicting widespread resistance to rate increases that might push landholders to their limits.