VFF pressures councils for a fair rates deal
The Victorian Farmers Federation is calling on local government to consider farmers in their budgets for next financial year.
VFF president David Jochinke last week wrote to rural and regional mayors warning them that Victorian farmers will strongly oppose any unfair rate hikes.
“Victorian agriculture cannot be expected to shoulder an even greater rating burden as we work to help rebuild the state’s economy in the wake of COVID-19.
“The VFF will be vocal in calling out councils that unfairly shift the rating burden onto farmers and the agricultural sector, whilst acknowledging and publicly commending councils that strike balance in their rating strategy,” Mr Jochinke said.
Baw Baw Shire is expected to consider its draft budget and rating strategy on June 24.
In the past, council has always offered its farm ratepayers and 10 per cent discount on the general rate.
Mr Jochinke said the VFF also was encouraging councils to join with farmers to lobby the state government for changes to the rating system.
“Victoria’s rating system has created the situation whereby all regional and rural ratepayers pay more in rates as a percentage of the value of their property than ratepayers in metropolitan Melbourne.
“What’s more, regional and rural ratepayers often receive and have access to fewer services from local government than ratepayers in the city,” he said.
Mr Jochinke said the VFF will be looking closely at all council budgets this year to catch out councils trying to force through unfair rate hikes.