THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is calling for an immediate halt to the Victorian Government’s plan to dramatically increase the fire services levy and extend it to all emergency services, warning that whilst every Victorian will pay, farmers will pay the most.


Under the proposed changes, the median fire services levy for primary producers will jump from $621 to $1299 per assessment, representing a staggering 109% increase.


This change will result in some landholders receiving hikes in the tens of thousands of dollars. In comparison, residential property owners will see a lower increase of 32%, highlighting the disproportionate burden placed on the agricultural sector.


VFF President Brett Hosking said the policy is a blatant cash grab that will worsen cost-of-living pressures across the state and cripple many farming businesses.


“This is an outrageous new tax that will hit every Victorian’s hip pocket, and farmers are being forced to pay the highest price with no justification. It’s a direct attack on the people who put food on our tables,” Mr Hosking said.


“At a time when families are already struggling with skyrocketing costs, and farmers are battling drought, bushfires, and rising expenses, this tax grab could not come at a worse time.


“It’s completely unacceptable.”


Mr Hosking added the government’s proposed Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund had departed from longstanding policy, shifting the funding of essential emergency services from consolidated revenue to a targeted tax.


“Victorians are now going to be taxed to call 000,” he said.


“This sets a dangerous precedent.


“If all emergency services can suddenly be funded through a tax, what’s next?


“Will ambulance services or police funding follow suit?


“This is a major shift in government policy and the consequences for all Victorians will be severe if it goes unchecked.


“It’s essentially a tax on volunteers and those who go above and beyond to help keep us safe in times crisis such as a bushfire.”


Adding to the frustration, Mr Hosking said the Victorian Government blindsided the farming community by failing to consult before pushing ahead with the levy hike.


“Many farmers already go above and beyond by volunteering with their local CFA brigades,” he said.


“Now, they’re being hit with massive tax increases without a single conversation or consideration for the impact.”


The VFF is calling on Premier Jacinta Allan to immediately withdraw the Bill and engage in proper consultation with the community and has written to her directly.


“The government must put a stop to this and go back to the drawing board. We need a fair and transparent funding model for emergency services and one that does not unfairly punish Victorian farmers or set a reckless precedent for the future,” Mr Hosking said.


“The VFF stands ready to work with the government to find a sustainable solution, but we will not stand by while farmers and Victorian families are forced to foot the bill for poor policy.”