Last week, Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, wrote to the Treasurer of Victoria, Jaclyn Symes, on behalf of Alpine Shire Council, Councillors, residents and ratepayers clarifying our position regarding the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund.
The full letter is available to read below.
Dear Treasurer,
Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund
I am writing to you on behalf of Councillors, Alpine Shire residents and ratepayers regarding the proposed replacement of the Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL) on 1 July 2025, with the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund (ESVF).
The impact on both rural councils and rural communities in implementing the ESVF will be significant, with the increase removing an estimated additional $2M/annum from the local economy, with a disproportionate impact on farming and commercial properties.
This significant increase comes at a time when communities can least afford to accommodate it. This will impact rural communities in particular, and we predict there will be a rise in families and farmers experiencing hardship due to the increased cost which will be placed on their rates notice.
In addition, the burden of both administration, and community engagement falls on Council with the increased associated costs and the reputational risks. Although we appreciate that we have been advised that the State will assist with the resourcing burden, a few weeks out from the proposed implementation date, we are still yet to know what these assistance arrangements might be.
We understand the importance our emergency services play in the safety and wellbeing of our community, however we question the validity on placing the burden for financially resourcing these services onto ratepayers and urge you to reconsider and find a fairer funding alternative.
Yours sincerely,
Cr Sarah Nicholas
Alpine Shire Council Mayor