Local farmers and residents say they feel “betrayed” by Cardinia Shire Council’s refusal to boycott the State Government’s emergency services levy.
Although other councils faced criticism during this controversy, many expected Cardinia to “know better” and “do more” given its largely rural population and firsthand understanding of how the levy impacts farmers.
The levy, imposed by the State Government, will be charged through local councils and some are refusing to do that.
Cardinia says it risks being in breach of the law if it boycotts the levy.
Well respected agricultural expert, Dr Mary Cole told the Star News she is “disappointed” by the council’s position, warning that 77 per cent of the shire is rural, in severe drought, and a vital food-producing area.
“We farmers are suffering the worst drought in years. We are having to buy water to keep stock alive. Costs of water delivered range around $150 +GST per 5000L,” she said.
“The mental health of farmers should be front and centre in drought and floods. They work 365 days a year to keep people in the urban areas.
“Farmers cannot continue to absorb costs when super markets are driving down prices to below the cost of production. Another levy is just not possible. A farmer suicides every 10 days. Here is one of the reasons why – more and more imposts on their depleting resources.”
Dr Cole called on the Council to “show some humanity, show leadership for a change and be more considerate to the farming population”.
“Many of the volunteers are also farmers. You are asking them to keep the towns safe but expect them to pay to do so,” she said.
Emergency service worker Fez Scott warned “the cost to taxpayers has gone through the roof” and “funding has already been cut to the fire services”.
Scott, who grew up on farms in western Victoria, said his friends in drought-affected areas had seen their fire service levy increase by more than $70,000 due to the tax being based on land size. On top of this, farmers are required by law to fund their own firefighting equipment and often volunteer their time during emergencies.
“Now they are being stung an extra 70k a year for the privilege of volunteering to crew a CFA truck,” he said.
Scott also expressed concern the State Government may be relying on the levy to manage broader budget shortfalls.
“This is not an emergency service tax. This is a tax to cover the cost of blown out budgets on big projects in metropolitan Melbourne like the tunnels. And the farmers are paying for it!”
Whether it’s Cardinia, Casey or the Hills, the community’s message is clear: “axe the tax”.
“Cardinia Council should join the many other councils who are boycotting this levy,” Pam Cartledge said.
However, not all residents oppose the change.
Martine Nicholls is supportive, seeing the extra charge as a reasonable contribution for essential emergency services.
“I’m okay with contributing an extra $52 for the 2025-26 year toward emergency services and volunteer funds,” he said.
“At any given time any/many Victorians’ safety and survival could be at stake. The work that they do is simply vital and the incidence of emergencies in rural and suburban areas is obviously increasing.”
Cardinia Shire Council has clarified its position, stating it will not join other councils in pressuring the State Government to scrap the charge but will continue advocating for the community.
“We understand the ongoing cost of living pressures facing our community, and we are committed to keeping rates and charges as affordable as possible while continuing to deliver essential services and projects,” Mayor Jack Kowarzik said.
“We are committed to continuing to work with our local government colleagues to advocate on this matter and highlight the sector’s concerns.”
The Victorian Government has announced a one-year freeze on the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund Levy (ESVFL) for primary producers, as part of the expanded Drought Package unveiled on 30 May.
