Family First is calling on the Allan Government to immediately withdraw its proposed fire services levy increase, warning it will devastate Victorian farmers, rural communities, and every ratepayer in the state.
“Victorian farmers are already battling a terrible drought, with many on the brink of financial collapse. Now, some are facing fire levy hikes of up to 185% - a crushing and unjust burden,” said Jane Foreman, Family First’s Victorian spokesperson.
“This is not just a tax on land; it’s a tax on our food security and the future of every rural community. Every ratepayer in Victoria will feel the pain of this policy, but it’s our farmers-already volunteering to fight fires and feed the nation-who are being hit hardest.”
The median fire services levy for primary producers is set to jump by 109%, but individual farmers report increases far higher, with some facing tens of thousands of dollars in new charges.
Meanwhile, Victoria’s worst drought in decades is drying up water supplies, destroying crops, and pushing families to the edge.
“Enough is enough. The Allan Government must scrap this unfair tax and provide real drought relief. Our farmers cannot afford to carry the cost of government mismanagement while struggling to survive the worst drought in years,” Ms Foreman said.
“Family First stands with Victorian farmers and rural communities. We demand the Allan Government protect those who protect us-not punish them. If this tax is not stopped, the cost will be paid by every Victorian at the supermarket checkout and in the loss of our rural way of life.”
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