Fire services property levy

New Name, Same Purpose:

FSPL to Be Replaced by Emergency Services

and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) from 1 July 2025

Starting 1 July 2025, the Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL) will be replaced by the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) in Victoria. This fund continues to support our emergency services, but with an updated name and potentially revised charges. If you own property—whether residential, commercial, industrial, or farming—it’s worth understanding how the new levy works and what it may cost you. We break it down below.

A New Name for a Familiar Fee—Why It Matters to You

If you’ve checked your council rates and spotted a charge for fire services, that’s the Fire Services Property Levy a contribution all property owners make to fund Victoria’s emergency services. From 1 July 2025, this levy will be known as the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF).

This change recognises the broader role of emergency services beyond fire response, including rescue and volunteer support. While the function of the levy stays the same, the amount you pay—and how it’s calculated—may change depending on your property type.

So What’s Actually Changing?

The ESVF replaces the FSPL, but will still appear on your council rates notice or as a separate notice if your land is non-rateable. The levy continues to be made up of:

• A fixed charge (different for residential and non-residential land)
• A variable charge (based on your property’s capital improved value, or CIV)
• Any concession, if eligible

From 1 July 2025, the name and structure may feel new, but the key components remain similar—just under a broader, more inclusive banner.

What Might You Pay? Example Based on $1 Million Property Value

Let’s look at an indicative estimate for properties with a capital improved value (CIV) of $1 million. These are not exact figures but can help you anticipate the likely range.

                Note: These are sample figures based on previous levy rates and may vary with CPI increases or future rate adjustments. Always check your council notice for actual charges.

The proposed ESVFL rates for 2025-26 are summarised below together with a comparison against the current rates: 

Property Classifications and Why They Matter

The levy amount depends largely on how your land is used. Each classification, residential, commercial, industrial, primary production, public benefit, and vacant has its own variable rate.

From 1 July 2020 onwards, the same rates apply across Victoria, regardless of whether your property is in a metropolitan or rural area.

Concessions and Exemptions

If you hold a pensioner concession card or a DVA Gold Card, you may be eligible for a $50 concession but only on your main home, and one per property per year.

Owners of multiple parcels of farmland operating as a single farm enterprise may also qualify for an exemption on paying the fixed charge more than once. Contact your local council to apply.

Can You Dispute the Levy?

You can’t object to the levy itself, but you can object to your property valuation or classification. These directly affect how much you pay. If something doesn’t seem right, it’s worth raising it with your local council as soon as possible.

Why Is This Change Happening?

The shift to the ESVF reflects the government’s push to create a more transparent, inclusive, and modern way of funding emergency services. It also highlights the critical role of volunteers, especially in rural communities.

What Should You Do Next?

• Check your current council rates notice to understand your property’s classification and CIV.
• Make sure any concessions or exemptions you’re entitled to are applied.
• If you think the classification or valuation of your property is off, contact your local council now—before the changes roll in.

Need Help Understanding What You’ll Pay?

The change from FSPL to ESVF might sound simple, but when it comes to dollars and cents, the details matter—especially if you own more than one property or run a business or farm.

If you need help navigating how this change might affect you, we’re here at HazeLegal to walk you through it.

We can review your council notice, explain your options, and help ensure you’re not paying more than you should.

DISCLAIMER

This commentary is published by HazeLegal for general information only—it’s not legal advice. If you have questions or need advice for your specific situation, we recommend speaking to a lawyer or reaching out to us at http://hazelegal.com.au before making any decisions.

© HazeLegal, Australia 2025.