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New Bracks TaxThe Bracks Government has lumped Victorians with another new tax, imposing a five per cent increase on water bills. By Peter Hall - 16th September 2004 - Back to News The passing of the Water Industry (Environmental Contributions) Bill through Parliament today means a five per cent increase on urban water bills and a two per cent increase on rurals.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Province PETER HALL, said the new laws would affect individuals, families, small business, agriculture, hospitals, schools, sports grounds and industries across the state.
"For every $100 Victorians pay on their future domestic or business water bills, the government will add an extra five dollars," Mr Hall said.
"Every time Victorians brush their teeth, flush the toilet, or have a shower, they are being taxed an additional five per cent.
"It puts a whole new spin on the term ‘spending a penny’.
"This latest Bracks tax will add $220 million to the State Government coffers over the next four years."
Mr Hall said the Government will impose the new charge on water authorities, despite already collecting more than $1.2 billion in dividends from the authorities since being elected in 1999.
"By requiring water authorities to collect the levy, the government is distancing itself from the tax and escapes public scrutiny.
"And in another sneaky move, charges will be hidden in water authority annual reports and not stated openly on customers’ water accounts.
"Make no mistake, whenever the government makes an announcement about new water initiatives, they’ll have one hand in your hip pocket and the other in their slush fund.
"This is yet another increase in the tax take on Victorians from the Bracks Government."
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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