Premier Jacinta Allan’s recent statement on 3AW confirming that farmers in drought-declared areas will be exempt from the Fire Services Levy has sparked urgent calls for further detail and clarity.
She stated, ‘volunteers across the CFA and SES are being exempt from the levy. We’ve made volunteers exempt. And there are arrangements in place for that exemption.’ […] ‘There are also exemptions in place for those that are in drought declared areas.’
Dan Tehan, Member for Wannon said, ‘if Premier Allan thinks her announcement has appeased struggling communities, she’s mistaken because too many questions remain unanswered. Who exactly is exempt? For how long? Which areas are officially drought-declared — and which are not?’
The Fire Services Levy is causing enormous distress across the community, especially to farmers who are suffering through one of the worst droughts in living memory.
‘People are deeply concerned about the financial impact of this tax and uncertainty only adds to that stress,’ said Mr Tehan. ‘If drought-affected farmers are to be exempt, the Allan State Labor Government must define who qualifies and how this exemption will work.’
Protesters made their voices heard at last week’s rally in Melbourne but it’s unclear if the Premier received the message.
‘Communities turned out in significant numbers last week to demand relief and transparency,’ said Mr Tehan. ‘Their message was clear: enough is enough. The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Fire Services Levy is unacceptable — Premier Allan needs to stop dodging the issue and immediately deliver a transparent, detailed plan.’
ENDS
Contact: Sandie Gustus M |0408 564 232 E | sandie.gustus@aph.gov.au
