Victoria’s recently passed emergency services levy has ignited significant unrest among farmers and Country Fire Authority (CFA) volunteers, threatening to overshadow Treasurer Jaclyn Symes’ inaugural budget presentation. Following the swift passage of this multibillion-dollar tax through parliament, angry farmers and CFA members are set to gather at the steps of parliament to voice their opposition.
The new levy, part of the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund, aims to bolster funding for the state’s fire response infrastructure, including the State Control Centre and emergency services like the SES. However, the increase, which more than doubles the previous rate established in 2012, is designed to relieve the burden on emergency services but is perceived as an added financial strain, especially for those in regional areas. Farmers, who already face economic pressures, are particularly affected, with some potentially shelling out tens of thousands of dollars due to the tax.
Despite ongoing protests, Premier Jacinta Allan has defended the levy, citing it as essential to meet the expanding requirements of emergency services. She contended that the adjustments reflect the growing demands on agencies like the SES, stating they are increasingly called to respond in communities.
Despite the backlash, the Allan government managed to push the proposal through parliament, aided by the Greens, who agreed to support the legislation in exchange for certain compromises. These include exemptions for CFA volunteers from the levy hike and a slightly reduced rate for farmers. However, concerns remain that even drought-affected farmers who are exempt may still bear a significant burden due to holding multiple land titles.
Tony Brody, a long-time farmer and CFA volunteer, voiced his outrage, claiming the increase could result in a 150% rise in fees, which he described as incomprehensible given the current hardships faced by farmers. Garry Cook, the acting chief officer of the CFA, confirmed that nearly 100 brigades had ceased operations to protest the new tax legislation, reinforcing the message that tensions run high among frontline workers.
Local leaders, like Strathbogie Shire Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy, have raised concerns about the potential community ramifications, warning that the tax could fracture regional cohesion and lead to widespread rate refusal. The atmosphere is tense as the contentious taxation measure is slated to be discussed further amidst a large protest outside parliament scheduled for Tuesday, coinciding with the release of the state budget. The ongoing discontent reflects deeper issues surrounding the state’s agricultural community and the support provided to its emergency services.