UPDATE: An urgent rally in Wonthaggi has gathered nearly 200 locals voicing their outrage against the State Government’s controversial new emergency services tax. The rally, titled ‘Not In Our Name’, took place at the Workmen’s Club, where community members expressed deep frustration over what many describe as an unfair levy.
The anger is palpable as farmers, volunteers, councillors, and concerned citizens unite against this emergency tax, which they claim disproportionately affects rural communities. “This is not just a levy on a bill. It is a tax on volunteers, a tax on farmers, a tax on the very existence of regional communities,” stated Shadow Minister for Local Government Bev McArthur MP. The rally served as a platform for local leaders to share their grievances and rally support for a movement that is gaining momentum across the region.
The urgency surrounding this issue is underscored by remarks from Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien, who emphasized that the discontent in regional Victoria is “unmistakable”. With the tax set to hit the community hard, local leaders are calling for immediate action. “Victorians are being bled dry by this government and it’s not fair. That is why, when the Liberals and Nationals win government, we will abolish this levy,” MP O’Brien asserted.
The emergency services levy, which impacts all Victorians, has been particularly criticized for its potential effects on farmers. Local farmer Graham Wood passionately described the tax as a direct threat to the soil that sustains their livelihoods. “This is a tax on your assets, not on your income,” he declared at the rally. “It’s gotta be healthy soil to produce your food and fibre, and no way should it be taxed.”
The rally also highlighted the formation of a working party consisting of 12 councillors, led by Cr Trudi Paton, who will approach the Minister regarding their concerns. The group is also preparing to present a submission to the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) to advocate for changes to the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF).
The next rally has been scheduled for September 16 at the Pakenham Community Hall, with confirmed speakers including MPs McArthur, David Limbrick, and Renee Heath, as well as Nathan Murphy from the United Firefighters Union. The community is determined to continue its fight against what they see as an unjust financial burden imposed by the Allan Government.
As anger simmers across regional Victoria, the message is clear: the community will not stay silent. “There will be many more rallies if Labor continues to ignore these communities,” warned McArthur. With the political landscape heating up, all eyes will be on the upcoming rally as residents demand to be heard and seek a fair outcome.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
