Brimbank council has formally requested the state government to review the emergency services and volunteers fund (ESVF) levy, which was introduced in July this year.
The ESVF will support services for emergencies including fires, floods, and storms and replaces the fire services property levy (FSPL) previously implemented by the government.
The council said the levy amount is set by and collected on behalf of the state government and does not contribute to council income.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said the ESVF places a significant financial strain on Brimbank ratepayers.
“The ESVF introduces a higher levy amount than the former FSPL and we estimate this new charge will cost Brimbank ratepayers approximately $12.3 million,”she said. “This added financial pressure comes at a time when our community is already grappling with rising living expenses.
“Our residents are not only being asked to shoulder this increased burden, but councils are also being tasked with the responsibility of collecting this levy for the Victorian government.
“We think [the ESVF review request] is essential to create a fairer funding model that considers the financial challenges faced by communities like ours.
“Council is collaborating with other councils and organisations to seek a fair resolution for both ratepayers and local governments.”
Star Weekly contacted the Victorian government, asking why the ESVF is considerably higher than the previous FSPL.
“Emergencies like floods and fires are getting more frequent and more severe – that’s why every single dollar raised by the new ESVF will support our emergency services – helping them to keep communities safe year-round,” a government spokesperson said.
“This levy – introduced originally by a liberal-national government – has been collected by local councils for years.
“Because our emergency services volunteers give our state so much, eligible CFA and VICSES volunteers and life members are able to access a rebate, administered by the Department of Government Services.”
The state government said in the 2025-26 financial year, the average residential property will be required to contribute about an extra $63 a year as part of the ESVF.
