Firefighters Protest Unfair Emergency Levy

Hundreds of regional Victorian firefighters hit the streets in Bendigo to protest a new emergency levy they say unfairly targets farmers and volunteers—men and women risking their lives to protect communities only to face financial penalties. Critics argue the tax, meant to fund fire services, SES, and call centers, isn’t reaching the ground where it’s needed, with some brigades still using 28-year-old trucks while the government collects revenue. Frustration boils over as protesters blast the government for poor financial management and a lack of understanding of regional needs, amplified by a controversial, sexist song aimed at the Premier. A new report confirms Victorians pay the highest levy in the nation, with opposition promising to scrap it if elected—while the government insists every dollar goes back to services and volunteers get rebates. Tensions rise further with news of an unused fire station in the Premier’s own electorate, abandoned for five years by bureaucracy, fueling anger that promises are broken and essential services are being ignored. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/349cf90e254d0cbf