Victoria’s proposed Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) is a new property-based tax that will hit farmers and rural communities the hardest — and most of the money won’t even go to your local CFA or SES.
Despite widespread protests, the government is pushing ahead. The tax has only been delayed for farmers until July 2026 — and unless we keep up the pressure, it’s coming.
The Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) is a new tax that replaces the Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL). Under the new model:
Charges will be based on Capital Improved Value (CIV) — not just land value.
The levy includes a fixed charge and a steep variable rate, hitting large rural properties the hardest.
It will be collected by local councils on behalf of the State Government.
Much of the money raised will go to government agencies — not to frontline volunteers.
In response to community outrage, the Victorian Government delayed the new levy for primary production properties by 12 months.
The new tax is set to apply to farms from 1 July 2026 — unless it’s scrapped.
Order a corflute sign for just $10 and put it up on your fence, gate, or roadside to show your support and spread the word. Every sign helps send a strong message across our rural communities.
Massive cost increases – Some farmers face levy hikes of 100–200%. In some cases, bills could jump by tens of thousands of dollars.
It’s unfair and poorly targeted – Penalising farmers and rural communities is unacceptable.
It punishes volunteers – Many CFA and SES volunteers will see no real benefit, even though they give their time to protect our communities.
Money is diverted – Most of the new revenue goes to bureaucratic departments, not to local emergency services.
Contact your local State MP – Let them know the tax is unfair and must be stopped.
Share your story – Tell us how this tax will affect your property, business or family.
Join Protect Our Farms – Become a member and help us push back.
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Display a sign – Order a corflute sign for just $10 and put it up on your fence, gate, or roadside to show your support and spread the word. Every sign helps send a strong message across our rural communities.
👉 Click here to order your corflute sign.