Want to know more about the Victorian Government's south west drought support package?
Join representatives from emergency management agencies at two free events happening in the Shire. Hear from agencies about the roles and responsibilities they have in responding to emergencies.
Published on 30 May 2025
While we welcome the temporary reprieve announced today by the State Government regarding the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, it remains only a short-term fix to a broader issue that continues to place farmers at an unfair disadvantage.
We urge the State Government to urgently carry out a full review of the levy and implement a permanent, more equitable solution. Farmers are already under significant pressure due to ongoing drought conditions and rising operational costs.
Council has previously written to both the Treasurer and the Minister for Local Government to express our concern that the levy places a disproportionate financial burden on rural and regional communities like ours, particularly on our primary producers. We will also be writing to the Premier.
Council will continue to advocate for a permanent review of this levy.
Cr Don Henderson, Mayor