Where Council Stands and What You Need To Know: The ESVF

Ararat Rural City Council has released an Emergency Services & Volunteers Fund (ESVF) Community Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) web page. This has been created to deliver transparency and clarity for local residents.

What does the ESVF mean for residents?
The ESVF is a State-Government charge that came into effect from 1 July 2025, replacing the Fire Services Property Levy. While it was designed to support local emergency services, there are wide-ranging objections.

Council’s stance
Council maintains its strong objection to the introduction of the Emergency Services Volunteer Fund (ESVF). We want to make it clear that while Council is legally obligated to collect the ESVF on behalf of the State Government, we have consistently and strongly advocated against its introduction due to our deep concerns about its impact on our community and we will continue to do so.

Council is also committed to maintaining open communication and transparency throughout the fund’s rollout, ensuring residents remain informed.

Key facts

• How it’s calculated: The ESVF is calculated to include a fixed charge (based on your property type) and a variable charge (based on your property type and capital improved value)
• You do need to pay it: Council does not have control over how the money you pay towards your rates notice is distributed. We are still legally obligated to pay a proportion of your rates payment to the State Government.
• The volunteer’s rebate: Eligible CFA and VICSES volunteers and life members will be entitled to a rebate on the ESVF on their principal place of residence or farm. We encourage all CFA and VICSES volunteers to explore this. More information can be found at Department of Government Services’ ESVF support line: 1300 819 033 and service.vic.gov.au/evrs  
• The Primary Producer Support Payment: As part of the Victorian Government’s Drought Support Package, primary producers in Ararat Rural City will receive a 40% reduction on their 2025–26 rates. This will be clearly marked on your rate’s notice if you’re eligible and is applied immediately.
• Updates on fund outcomes will be published on the Council news webpage.

Dr Tim Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, said “We know that many in our community who continue to feel the strain of tough economic times. We are clear on our objection to this tax and will continue to voice our objection. We encourage everyone to review the FAQs, stay informed, and know that Council is completely aligned with our community on this.”

For further information, please refer to the Emergency Services & Volunteers Fund FAQs on the Council’s official site, or subscribe to Council’s e-newsletter for ongoing updates.