Member for Eastern Victoria Melina Bath has renewed calls for the State Government to scrap the emergency services tax, following compelling findings from a Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) survey that highlighted widespread frustration and deep concern among Victorian farmers.
Ms Bath raised the issue in state parliament as rates notices containing the controversial tax began arriving in mailboxes, sparking renewed outrage.
"Labor must scrap the tax - it cannot keep pushing farmers to breaking point," she said.
The VFF survey highlighted the depth of concern across the agricultural sector:
95 per cent of respondents were concerned or very concerned about the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund levy;
95 per cent were concerned or very concerned about new taxes;
96 per cent were concerned or very concerned about road and freight infrastructure;
88 per cent were concerned or very concerned about rising energy costs; and,
87 per cent were concerned or very concerned about getting the transition to renewables right.
Ms Bath said she continued to receive calls from local farmers who were struggling both financially and mentally.
"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," Ms Bath said.