Introduction of the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund

This new fund aims to broaden the scope of emergency services funded through property taxes, ensuring a more comprehensive support system for the community.

The ESVF will provide financial support to a wider range of emergency services, including the Victorian State Emergency Service (VICSES), Triple Zero Victoria, the State Control Centre, Forest Fire Management Victoria, and Emergency Recovery Victoria, in addition to the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV). The change is intended to create a more robust and inclusive funding model for these critical services.

The method of calculating the ESVF will remain similar to the FSPL, with both fixed and variable components; however, the variable component will see a significant increase, ranging between 64% and 189%, depending on property classification. For a median-priced house in the Alpine Shire, this translates to an approximate increase of $72 per year.

CFA and VICSES lifetime members and volunteers will be exempt from the ESVF on their principal place of residence. The State Government will manage these exemptions through a rebate process, with further details to be provided at a later date.

Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, acknowledged the potential impact on households, especially given the current cost of living pressures. 

"While the Council will collect and remit the ESVF funds to the State Revenue Office, this is a directive from the State Government," she said.

"We understand that any increase in charges can be challenging, particularly in the current economic climate; however, living in a bushfire-prone area, we deeply value our volunteer services and the incredible dedication of our emergency services volunteers.  

"We support their need for adequate funding in order to continue the important work they do."

The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), along with FinPro and the Revenue Management Association (RMA), has expressed ongoing concerns regarding the implementation of the ESVF.  

In a letter to the Treasurer of Victoria, MAV highlighted the significant administrative, financial, and reputational challenges that local governments face with this new levy.  

The letter calls for the State Government to take specific actions to mitigate these issues, including administering the exemption and rebate process, and providing upfront funding to councils.

Cr Nicholas said Council supported MAV's stance regarding the ESVF.

"We stand with MAV in urging the State Government to address the administrative and financial burdens placed on local councils," she said.

"It is essential that the State provides the necessary support to ensure a smooth transition and to minimise the impact on our community."

Council encourages all ratepayers to stay informed and reach out with any questions or concerns.  

For more information on changes to the ESVF, please visit: www.dtf.vic.gov.au/emergency-services-and-volunteers-fund