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Melina Bath urges Labor government to scrap emergency services tax as VFF survey shows farmers' frustration and concern

The Nationals' Melina Bath urged the Allan Labor government to scrap the emergency services tax, citing VFF survey findings showing widespread financial, mental, and regulatory pressures on Victorian farmers.

By news@gippsland - 5th September 2025 - Back to News

The Nationals' Melina Bath has renewed her call for the Allan Labor government to scrap the emergency services tax, following compelling findings from a Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) survey that highlights widespread frustration and deep concern among Victorian farmers.

Melina Bath said local farmers face financial and mental struggles, frustrated by Labor's taxes, lack of consultation, and denied objections

Tax fuels outrage

Ms Bath raised the issue in state parliament as rate notices containing the controversial tax began arriving in mailboxes across eastern Victoria, sparking renewed outrage. "Labor must scrap the tax - it cannot keep pushing farmers to breaking point." The VFF's extensive survey highlights the depth of concern across the agricultural sector:

• 95 percent of respondents are concerned or very concerned about the Emergency Services Levy
• 95 percent are concerned or very concerned about new taxes
• 96 percent are concerned or very concerned about road and freight infrastructure
• 88 percent are concerned or very concerned about rising energy costs
• 87 percent are concerned or very concerned about getting the transition to renewables right

Ms Bath said she continues to receive calls from local farmers who are struggling both financially and mentally.

Farmers under pressure

Ms Bath said, "So many are at the end of their tether, and the Allan Labor government is refusing to listen. Given the relentless pressures on farmers, this level of frustration is entirely expected. Labor has imposed exorbitant new taxes, failed to consult on renewable energy infrastructure, and stripped farmers of their right to object when their land is impacted."

"The Allan government continues to ride roughshod over the very people who feed and clothe us. Instead of treating primary producers as a cash cow, the Allan government should be backing them and delivering the support needed to strengthen Victoria's world-class food and fibre industry," said Ms Bath

Pictures from Melina Bath MP Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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