The Victorian government has temporarily stepped back from implementing its controversial emergency services levy on farmers, while also announcing increased financial support for those facing prolonged dry conditions.
For the 2024/25 financial year, the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) levy will be capped at its current rate for all primary production properties across the state. The ESVF, which replaces the previous and less expensive fire services levy, funds fire services, the State Emergency Service, triple-zero operations, and the state control centre.
The decision follows significant backlash, including a large protest in Melbourne on May 20, when thousands of CFA volunteers and farmers rallied against the levy on state budget day.
In addition to the levy cap, the government has committed $37.7 million in new drought relief funding. This includes raising infrastructure grants to $10,000 in 11 council areas and parts of West Wimmera, and offering $5,000 grants to farmers statewide. The aid package will also support water carting and pasture regeneration efforts across Victoria.
This marks the government’s third drought relief announcement since September. Earlier this month, $15.9 million was pledged to expand infrastructure grants to farmers in 11 western and central council areas, as well as parts of Gippsland. The original $13.5 million program had targeted 13 areas in the south-west.
Premier Jacinta Allan acknowledged the statewide impact of the drought, noting that the absence of autumn rain has worsened conditions. She emphasized that the support was being extended to address the widespread hardship.
To guide future responses, the government has established a new task force including representatives from government, the opposition, farming groups, mental health organizations, and local councils. Treasurer Jaclyn Symes said the task force will focus on identifying further support needs and delivering meaningful relief to rural communities.
However, protest leaders have warned that the tax relief is only temporary. In a joint statement, Wimmera farmer Andrew Weidemann and United Firefighters Union Secretary Peter Marshall insisted the ESVF should be repealed entirely.
“The government has made clear that the pause for farmers is for this year only,” the statement said. “The tax will hang over the heads of every Victorian — including farmers, businesses, and homeowners — for every year to come.”
