Victorian Nationals: Danny O'Brien MP - Landholders urged to know their obligations

Changes to taxes and charges affecting property came into effect from 1 January 2026, prompting The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O'Brien to urge landholders to make sure they understand their obligations.

Mr O'Brien said while The Nationals strongly oppose the new and increased property taxes introduced by the Allan Labor Government, landholders still need to comply with the rules now in force to avoid strict penalties.

"These taxes are unfair and I don't support them, but they are now the law and I would hate to see Gippslanders further out-of-pocket simply because they weren't aware of a reporting obligation change," Mr O'Brien said.

"That means landholders need to know what they must declare, what they need to pay and when action is required."

Mr O'Brien said changes to the Vacant Residential Land Tax from 1 January may affect some Gippsland landholders for the first time.

"Some residential land, that may have been previously exempt, will now attract Vacant Residential Land Tax (VRLT) if it has remained undeveloped for too long, or if a home has been uninhabitable or under renovation for an extended period.

"There is also a common misconception that you are exempt from VRLT if you only own one property, but this is not always the case.

"Landholders also need to be aware that vacant residential land must be declared, even if no tax ends up being payable."

Mr O'Brien highlighted that property owners involved in short-stay accommodation are also facing new requirements, with new reporting and payment obligations depending on how much income the property earns each year.

Mr O'Brien said Labor continues to rely on higher property taxes to fix its budget problems, leaving landholders to foot the bill.

"The Nationals opposed these changes because they increase costs for families, farmers and small investors.

"Even so, it is important that landholders take the time to understand their obligations and avoid penalties."