Reality has already bitten in some municipalities as rates notices arrive in letter boxes.
Highlighted, sometimes in bright orange or red to signify a warning, is an added state government charge – the insidious emergency services tax.
Local councils have been forced to collect Labor’s $3 billion emergency services tax grab and it makes for ugly reading.
There has been plenty of debate, arguments and protests about this tax, but seeing it in writing brings homes the pain – and if your rates notice hasn’t arrived, it isn’t far away.
Homeowners can expect to pay double the rate they paid under the former fire services levy.
I’ve seen one homeowner slugged more than $500 in total – on top of their rates.
Many will face even more.
The tax hit on commercial properties will also double and industrial properties will rise by 64 per cent.
Farmers have a one-year reprieve, before another reality hits – a 150 per cent rise.
This tax will not help frontline services.
Indeed they’re being cut.
It will only plug budget black holes.
Our promise is clear – The Nationals will scrap this tax and ease the cost-of-living burden on all Victorians.
Join the campaign and make your views known at www.scrapthetax.com.au
Danny O’Brien,
Leader of The Nationals
