The emergency services and volunteers fund (ESVF) has replaced the fire services property levy (FSPL) to support emergency and disaster response services.
Under the new Fire Services Property Amendment (Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund) Act 2025, Council must collect the ESVF on behalf of the Victorian Government as part of your Rates.
How is ESVF calculated
The ESVF will be calculated based on
- a fixed charge that varies by property type
- a variable charge based on property type and capital improved value (CIV)
Rebates, exemptions and concessions
Existing concessions continue to apply.
Holders of pensioner concession cards and Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Cards receive a $50 concession on their home (PPR). Only one concession applies per property per year.
Volunteer rebate
Eligible CFA and VICSES volunteers will be entitled to a rebate in relation to the ESVF.
The Volunteer Rebate IS NOT managed by Council.
The Department of Government Services manages the Eligible Volunteers Rebate Scheme. Customers seeking information on the rebate or wanting to claim the rebate need to visit the Eligible Volunteers Rebate Scheme website for details.
Single farm enterprise exemption from fixed charge
If you own or occupy multiple parcels of land for a single farm enterprise, you may only need to pay the fixed charge once.
Apply for an exemption
What happens if I refuse to pay/cannot pay the levy?
Ratepayers cannot choose to only pay rates and not the ESVF as Council is required by law to apportion any payments received between council rates and the ESVF.
As they do with rates, Councils can set up payment plans to assist with paying the levy.
If a property owner does not pay the levy, Councils are expected to take steps to recover outstanding amounts, which may include charging interest or initiating court action.
More information
Alternatively, contact the Department of Government Services ESVF Support Line on 1300 819 033