Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund

From 1 July 2025, the Victorian Government Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) will replace the existing Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL). This is a charge that will appear on your Council rates notice.

For more information about the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF), visit the State Revenue Office website.

Please call the Department of Government Services support line for information or concerns on the ESVF enquiries: 1300 819 033.

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Council's Stance:

Wellington Shire Council does not support the Victorian Government’s changes to the Fire Services Levy and is actively pushing back, alongside many other rural and regional councils. Although the levy appears on your Council rates notice, itis not a Council charge. It is a State Government tax, and under Victorian law, councils are legally required to act as collection agents. This means:

• We must include the levy on your rates notice.
• We must collect the payment from property owners.
• We must pass the full amount directly to the State Government.

Like many regional and rural councils, we believe this system is unfair and puts an extra burden on local communities. We will continue to advocate for a fairer, more transparent funding system that doesn’t shift the cost of state government services onto local ratepayers.

CFA and SES volunteers:

If you are a volunteer seeking reimbursement or exemption, please:

• Contact your local CFA or SES unit,
• Log in via the CFA or SES Member Portal, or
• Apply directly through the Department of Government Services.

Experiencing financial difficulty?

If you're struggling to pay your rates, we’re here to help. Please call us on 1300 366 244 during business hours to discuss flexible payment options.

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FAQ’s:

Emergency services and volunteers fund — frequently asked questions | State Revenue Office

ESVF Calculator:

Emergency services and volunteers fund calculator | State Revenue Office

For more information about the volunteer rebate:

https://www.vic.gov.au/Eligible-Volunteers-Rebate-Scheme