Before 1 July 2013 the ESVF was part of your property insurance. The State Government now requires that councils collect the levy.

Fair cost sharing

The emergency service volunteer fee (ESVF) now operates as a direct tax on properties to ensure that all property owners contribute to the cost of fire fighting services following a recommendation of the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission.

Levy money collected will contribute to the funding of the Country Fire Authority and Melbourne Metropolitan Fire Brigade.

Levy calculations

The 2025-2026 levy will comprise a fixed component of $136 a year for residential properties and $275 for commercial/industrial primary production public benevolent and vacant land.

On top of this will be a variable charge based on a percentage of the capital improved value of properties. This percentage will be determined by the State Government.

Pensioners and the fire levy

Eligible pensioners and veterans will receive a $50 discount on the ESVF.

Need to know more...

More details including a fire services levy calculator can be found at the State Government’s Emergency Services Volunteer Fund website.