2025–26 Rates Notices to Include New State Government Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund

Strathbogie Shire residents will soon receive their 2025–26 rates notices, which this year will look a little different.

Alongside Council’s charges, the notice will also include 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. That’s why we’ve kept our overall rate increase to 3 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.”

The ESVF is a State Government levy, not a Council charge. We are required by law to collect it and pass it on to the State. However, Strathbogie Shire Council has consistently raised concerns about this levy, because it risks placing an unfair burden on rural and regional communities like ours – particularly farmers and primary producers. We will continue to advocate strongly for fairer and more sustainable funding models for emergency services.”

What’s the difference between my 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 available

Council offers flexible payment plans, including weekly or fortnightly instalments, to help ease financial pressure. If you are having difficulty paying your rates in full, you are encouraged to contact Council early.

“If you’re worried about paying your rates or the ESVF, please reach out. We have options to help you get on top of things before it becomes a bigger problem,” Mayor Ewart-Kennedy said.

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 Council Rates

-$50 for Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund

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.

“Our role is to deliver the best possible services and infrastructure for our 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,” Mayor Ewart-Kennedy said.

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