The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria, Gaelle Broad, has called on the Allan Labor Government to stop the proposed Emergency Services levy, highlighting the severe impact it will have on regional Victorians already facing rising living costs.
Ms Broad attended a public meeting on the issue in Baringhup on Wednesday night, along with Maree Edwards MP, Member for Bendigo West and Martha Haylett MP, Member for Ripon, and said locals were very worried and angry about the impact of the new tax.
“Many people are extremely upset about this latest tax,” Ms Broad said.
“The Allan Labor Government need to reconsider their priorities in the coming state budget. They don’t have the funds to pay for the Suburban Rail Loop, so they’re introducing another new tax.
“This new tax, which the Government plans to introduce from 1 July this year, places a huge burden on regional Victorians already struggling with rising living costs.
Ms. Broad highlighted the significant increases in rates that households, businesses, and primary producers will face under the new levy:
- Households are set to pay almost double.
- Commercial rates will increase by 100%.
- Industrial rates will jump by 64%.
- Primary producers will face an increase of 189%
“This new tax raises over $2 billion over three years, yet the Government only talk about a $250 million package for CFA and SES. The rest is to fund public agencies like EMV, Forest Fire Management, the State Control Centre and Emergency Recovery Victoria.”
“In another blow to renters, rental providers will be charged another $267 plus a variable fee. Many rental providers, already stretched by land tax and increasing costs due to more than 130 rental reforms introduced by this government, have no option but to increase rents or sell.
Ms Broad said the Government had announced exemptions under the Emergency Services Levy, but hasn’t worked out how these exemptions will apply, leaving people confused and angry.
“Labor can’t manage money and they can’t manage projects, and Victorians are paying the price.”
“The legislation will be debated in the Legislative Council next week, and I hope cross benchers will join the Nationals and the Liberals in opposing this Bill,” Ms Broad said.
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
