Please note: this is an archived news article release
This article was published on Thursday, 7 August, 2025. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.
Posted on Thursday 7th of August, 2025,
Greater Shepparton residents will soon receive their Annual Rates Notices, which this year include a new charge introduced by the State Government, the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF).
In summary:
The ESVF, which came into effect on 1 July 2025, is a State Government imposed tax that Council is legally required to collect from ratepayers on behalf of the State Government. This new tax replaces the former Fire Services Property Levy and expands funding to a broader range of emergency service agencies, including Triple Zero Victoria, Emergency Management Victoria, Forest Fire Management Victoria, State Control Centre and Emergency Recovery Victoria.
Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Fiona Le Gassick, explained the implications for ratepayers.
“Council is legislated under the Emergency Services Volunteer Fund Act 2012 to collect this tax on behalf of the State Government, which must be paid unless you’re eligible for an exemption or concession, such as Emergency Services Volunteers, primary producers, pensioners and veterans,” she said.
If residents have any questions regarding their rates, the ESVF or are experiencing difficulties in paying their rates, charges and levies as shown on their rates notice, please contact Council immediately to discuss concerns and payment options. Phone Council on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au
To find out more about this State Government tax, visit the State Revenue Office website.
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