Latest ESVF information now available on PSC website

Published on 27 May 2025

Pyrenees Shire Council has put the latest Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) information on a dedicated website page.

It includes details of a partial ESVF rebate provided to farmers eligible for On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants through the Victorian Government's drought support package.

Currently Pyrenees Shire is one of the eligible drought affected Local Government Areas but this rebate will be assessed annually as climatic conditions change. More information is available at agriculture.vic.gov.au/farm-management/dry-seasons-and-drought-support.

The website page also includes Pyrenees Shire Council’s media and advocacy efforts, a Victorian Government question and answer document and relevant helplines to assist residents during this difficult time.

Pyrenees Shire CEO Jim Nolan said it was vital to keep residents up to date with the latest information during such a challenging period.

“While Council’s advocacy on the ESVF continues, it’s important that our residents have access to the information about the implementation of the levy, and particularly the rebates,” Mr Nolan said.

The ESVF is a Victorian Government charge replacing the Fire Services Property Levy.

At the time of preparing this release, the Bill introducing the levy is still awaiting royal assent but is proposed to be introduced by 1 July. Councils will be required to collect the levy on behalf of the Victorian Government.

The ESVF page can be found at pyrenees.vic.gov.au/Residents/Engage/Emergency-Services-and-Volunteers-Fund