Melina Bath – Doubts over Labor’s use of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund
Fresh doubts have been cast on Labor’s use of the Allan Government’s Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) in state parliament.
The ESVF is a newly doubled and rebranded Labor tax, formerly called the Emergency Services Levy.
The Nationals’ Melina Bath said Labor added ‘volunteers’ to the levy title to sway public perception but does not mask the impact of a double tax hit.
“Labor refuses to provide any clarity on the distribution of the $2.1 billion it generates.
“The Allan Government is dodging questions – the community deserves to know how much goes to core government services and what proportion will our underfunded emergency services volunteer organisations receive.”
In state parliament Ms Bath called on Labor to come clean and detail the distribution of the ESVF.
“Volunteer agencies are completely in the dark on Labor’s tax,” said Ms Bath.
“Labor is using it to prop up government agencies including Triple Zero, the State Control Centre and Emergency Management Victoria – all core services that should be covered by existing tax revenue.
“Labor cut tens of millions of dollars from these agencies to fund Melbourne’s mismanaged big build; now it is double dipping on ratepayers to pay for its financial woes.
“It is a shocking that our underfunded CFA and SES must fundraise to purchase critical lifesaving equipment, and Volunteer Coast Guards, St John Ambulance and Surf Life Saving Victoria do not have funding surety.
Ms Bath said the Allan Government must be transparent in how the ESVF will be apportioned.
“In addition, Labor must ensure all emergency services organisations receive a fair share and their volunteers receive a levy exemption for their invaluable community contribution.
“Labor can’t manage money, can’t manage emergency services and residents are paying the price. “
Media contact – Jenni Rohde 0437 750 806