Information about the rollout of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund
Council has continued its advocacy against the introduction of the new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) and reiterating the unfairness of this new State tax. We also object to collecting this tax, which will take an extra $2 Million from our ratepayers, on behalf of the State Government when they have the means to do it themselves through the State Revenue Office.
However, if the Parliamentary Bill becomes legislation by Royal Assent from the Governor of Victoria, Council is legally obligated to collect the ESVF tax, which will take effect from 1 July 2025.
Council is aware that some ratepayers are considering withholding payment of their rates in protest.
It is important for the community to know that any unpaid rates, including the ESVF component, will incur interest on any outstanding or partial balances. Additionally, under the legislation, even if ratepayers withhold the ESVF component of the rates notice, Council is legally obligated to forward the ESVF proportion of the paid amount to the State Government. Our hands are essentially tied.
We understand the frustration this change has caused, particularly amid cost-of-living pressures.,. We strongly encourage eligible CFA and VICSES volunteers to apply for the rebate that is available on their principal place of residence or farm. Drought-affected farmers are urged to explore the additional partial rebate provided under the State’s drought support program, and for anyone experiencing financial hardship, we encourage you to contact Council early to discuss the financial support options available.
The ESVF will replace the existing Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL) and will result in significantly higher costs for all property owners across our municipality. The levy consists of a fixed charge based on property type, plus a variable component calculated on the property’s capital improved value (CIV). While the State Government argues that this model will provide greater funding certainty for a broader range of emergency services——Council remains deeply concerned about the lack of local consultation and the disproportionate impact this change will have on regional and rural communities. And, these services should be funded from the multitude of taxes, levies and duties we already pay to both levels of Government.
We have recently written to Premier Jacinta Allen MP and other Members of Parliament and are actively working with peak bodies and other councils to voice our concerns
In the meantime, we urge all local ratepayers to review their eligibility for the available volunteer and drought rebates, reach out to Council if you are facing financial difficulty, and continue raising your concerns with all Members of Parliament. Your voice is powerful, and together we can continue advocating for fairer outcomes for our community.
Big step forward for housing in Swan Hill
Council is proud to be backing a bold, community-led solution to help tackle our region’s housing shortage. At our May Council Meeting, we voted to partner with the Housing Action: Greater Swan Hill Committee’s Housing Investment Model Subcommittee to kickstart a brand-new Housing Trust. This Trust will be driven by locals and designed to fund and manage new housing developments right here in our community. This initiative is about finding smart, community-minded ways to build the homes we need - bringing people together, encouraging local investment, and delivering real, long-term benefits for the region.
To get things moving, we are contributing two blocks of land at 13 and 15 Tower Avenue, Tower Hill—together worth $230,000—in return for shares in the Trust. This land is perfect for driving fresh housing options for our growing community.
Keep your eyed peeled for a public investment prospectus coming soon, giving locals the chance to get involved and become shareholders in the Trust. With this model you don’t need to have enough money to buy your own investment property – you can be a part of it with a smaller investment.
The Trust will be overseen by a three-member board, including representation from the community, investors, and our Council’s CEO Scott Barber. It’s a smart, future-focused move that helps us deliver new homes and boost our local economy—without needing to spend extra ratepayer dollars.
The Trust is aiming to launch multiple housing projects, and if things don’t go to plan, the land will simply return to Council. It’s a win-win—and a big step forward for Swan Hill.
Make the Most of the June Long Weekend
The June long weekend is nearly here, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do across our wonderful region. Whether you’re a fan of art, racing, live music, or markets — this is the perfect time to get out and enjoy everything our communities have to offer.
Kicking off the weekend is the Swan Hill Fight Cancer Foundation Fundraiser Art Exhibition, running from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon (6–8 June). This event not only showcases incredible local talent but also supports a cause close to many hearts in our community.
Also starting Friday is the highly anticipated Swan Hill Jockey Club’s Three-Day Racing Carnival, with the feature event being the Swan Hill Cup on Sunday afternoon. This long-standing event is always a highlight, drawing thousands of visitors from across the state for a weekend of exciting races, fashion, and festivities.
As part of the festivities, music lovers are in luck this long weekend, with live music happening at many venues across the region.
For motorsport fans, Sonic Speedway at the Swan Hill Motor Racing Club will have gates open from 3:00pm on both Saturday and Sunday. Expect an action-packed couple of days full of hi octane adrenaline and entertainment for the whole family.
Whatever your plans, I encourage you to support local events, catch up with friends, and take a moment to enjoy the rich experiences our region has to offer.
And if you’re heading away for the weekend, please travel safely and take care on the roads.