VICTORIAN farmers are being called to rally against the proposed fire services property levy changes in Melbourne tomorrow.

The Victorian Farmers Federation today called on all farmers to make their voices heard in a final push against the proposed levy changes, with a parliamentary vote expected next week.

The rally opposing the levy increases will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, 13 May 2025, on the steps of Parliament House, Spring Street, Melbourne.

The VFF said the proposal has already sparked widespread backlash from the farming community, with concerns the levy will disproportionately impact primary producers and rural landholders.

Recent farmer-led protests have included a delegation to the Bendigo office of the Victorian Premier, Jacinta Alan, where volunteers left fire trucks parked outside, and a letter drop to the office of Ripon MP Martha Haylett in Maryborough.

VFF president Brett Hosking said now is the time for farmers to contact their local MPs and express their opposition before it’s too late.

“There’s already been a huge amount of noise about this, and rightly so.”

Mr Hosking has said under the proposal, the median fire services levy for primary producers will increase by 109 percent, from $621 to $1299 per assessment.

The VFF has urged the Victorian Government to legislate a cap on levy increases, implement fairer classification and rate setting, and provide a levy rebate for CFA volunteers.

Mr Hosking said the proposed changes are simply unfair on farmers who are already under pressure from rising input costs, rate hikes and climate challenges.

“We’re urging all rural Victorians to take action now; write or call your local MP. Let them know how this will affect your business, your family, and your community.”

“I’ve had farmer’s reach out to me telling me this new tax will mean one less full time employee on their farm,” Mr Hosking said.

“That’s one less family in the local school, less support in the local community and importantly less volunteers on CFA tankers when our communities are under threat.”

The VFF said the levy will increase the financial burden on farmers without delivering improved services or accountability in return.

“This is our last chance to make sure regional voices are heard loud and clear before the vote,” Mr. Hosking said.

Farmers can find contact details for their local MPs at www.parliament.vic.gov.au or use the VFF template.