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New land tax rules by Allan Labor government causes surprise bills for requiring Latrobe Valley landholders to check exemptions amid billing errors

Labor government's new land tax thresholds, effective January 1, have led to many Latrobe Valley landholders receiving unexpected bills. Martin Cameron, advises checking exemptions due to widespread billing errors.

By news@gippsland - 19th June 2024 - Back to News

New land tax thresholds introduced by the Allan Labor government on January 1 this year have seen many Latrobe Valley landholders receiving a land tax bill for the first time. The Nationals' Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron, is urging landholders to check their liability before paying, as reports come to light of land tax bills being incorrectly issued to people, organisations and community groups who qualify for exemptions.

The Allan Labor government's new land tax thresholds have resulted in first-time bills for many in Latrobe Valley. Martin Cameron advises verifying exemptions due to erroneous issuances

Land tax threshold lowered

Mr Cameron said that while he and his National Party colleagues opposed reducing the valuation threshold for land tax exemptions from $300,000 to just $50,000, the Allan Labor government pushed legislation through State Parliament last year.

"This change has led to many people getting a land tax bill for the first time, and it is important to note that while you may no longer be eligible for an exemption based on property value alone, there are other criteria for exemption," he said.

"The most common exemption is if the property is your principal place of residence or if the land is used for primary production, however there are also other exemptions that certain community groups and not-for-profit organisations may be eligible for," he said

Tax burden criticised

Mr Cameron said that since coming into government in 2014, Labor had slugged hardworking Victorians with 55 new or increased taxes, fees, and charges. "In the midst of a cost-of-living crisis these land tax changes come at a time when Victorians can least afford it

"I am urging anyone who has received a land tax bill for the first time and is unsure of their rights to make enquiries and ensure that they are not paying tax when they shouldn't be. It is wrong that everyday Victorians are being punished with increased taxes to make up for Labor's economic mismanagement," he said.

Information on land tax including how to apply for an exemption can be found online at or by contacting the State Revenue Office (SRO) on 132 161 during business hours.

Pictures from Martin Cameron MP Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com