Strathbogie Shire residents will soon receive their 2025–26 rates notices, which this year will look a little different.
Alongside council’s charges will be the Victorian government’s new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) – which has replaced the Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL) from 1 July 2025.
Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy said council understands the introduction of the new levy – and the rising cost of living – will be challenging for many households.
“We know every extra dollar matters right now,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.
“That’s why we’ve kept our overall rate increase to three per cent, in line with the state’s rate cap, and we’re being as transparent as possible about what is council’s charge and what is the state’s.”
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The ESVF is a state government levy, not a council charge but which council is obliged under law to collect.
Strathbogie Shire Council has consistently raised concerns about the levy due to risks of placing unfair burdens on rural and regional communities – particularly farmers and primary producers.
“We will continue to advocate strongly for fairer and more sustainable funding models for emergency services,” Cr Ewart Kennedy said.
The difference between rates and the ESVF levy
Council rates fund local services and infrastructure such as roads, footpaths, parks, gardens, playgrounds, libraries, waste collection, and community facilities.
The ESVF levy is collected on behalf of the Victorian government to fund a broader range of emergency services.
Payment support is available
Council offers flexible payment plans, including weekly or fortnightly instalments, to help ease financial pressure.
Residents having difficulty paying rates in full are encouraged to contact council early.
“If you’re worried about paying your rates or the ESVF, please reach out,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.
“We have options to help you get on top of things before it becomes a bigger problem.”
The state government has also announced an Emergency Volunteers Rebate for eligible volunteers.
Details are available at https://service.vic.gov.au/evrs
Pensioner concessions
For eligible pensioner concession cardholders, the total rebate available in 2025–26 is up to $316 ($266 for rates, $50 for ESVF).
Transparency and advocacy
This year’s rates notice has been redesigned to clearly separate council’s rates and charges from the State Government’s ESVF levy, helping residents understand exactly where their money is going.
Council has previously written to the Treasurer and Minister for Local Government opposing the ESVF, raising concerns that it places a heavier financial burden on rural communities and primary producers; advocacy efforts will continue.
Cr Ewart-Kennedy said council’s role was to deliver the best possible services and infrastructure for the community, while standing up for fairness.
“We’ll keep making the case that emergency services should be funded in a way that doesn’t penalise the very communities they serve.”
For ESVF-specific enquiries, contact the State Government’s ESVF support line on 1300 819 033.
For help with payment plans or council rates, contact Strathbogie Shire Council on (03) 5795 0000 or email info@strathbogie.vic.gov.au
For more information, visit www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au
