Council
28 May, 2025
Tehan seeks clarity on levy exemption
MEMBER for Wannon Dan Tehan is demanding clarity on the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund exemptions.
Mr Tehan has raised concerns after Premier Jacinta Allan recently stated farmers in drought-declared areas will be exempt from the levy.
He said the Premier had stated volunteers across the Country Fire Authority and State Emergency Service would be exempt and there would also be exemptions in place for those in drought-declared areas.
Mr Tehan said greater clarity was needed on the extent of the exemptions and how much support primary producers in drought affected areas and emergency services volunteers would receive.
“If Premier Allan thinks her announcement has appeased struggling communities, she’s mistaken,” he said.
“Too many questions remain unanswered.
“Who exactly is exempt? For how long? Which areas are officially drought-declared — and which are not?”
Mr Tehan said the levy was creating distress in rural communities and the lack of answers was only making the situation worse.
“The Fire Services Levy is causing enormous distress across the community, especially to farmers who are suffering through one of the worst droughts in living memory,” he said.
“People are deeply concerned about the financial impact of this tax and uncertainty only adds to that stress.
“If drought-affected farmers are to be exempt, the Allan State Labor Government must define who qualifies and how this exemption will work.”
Mr Tehan said protesters made their voices heard at last week’s rally in Melbourne but it’s unclear if the Premier received the message.
“Communities turned out in significant numbers last week to demand relief and transparency,” he said.
“Their message was clear: enough is enough.
“The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Fire Services Levy is unacceptable.
“Premier Allan needs to stop dodging the issue and immediately deliver a transparent, detailed plan.”
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