THE state government is making it harder for farmers to gain exemptions from land tax bills due to the recent introduction of stricter criteria specifically aimed at primary producers.
The updated criteria from the State Revenue Office includes the need for more detailed documentation, specific evidence of preparation activities, and proof of intent to use the land for farming.
Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, said the changes were putting an extra burden on farming families across regional communities.
“Our farmers are under enough stress as it is without the added burden of piles of paperwork,” Ms Cleeland said.
“The lack of clarity from this government about the land tax exemptions has left our farmers concerned about how they can prove to the SRO that they are legitimate primary producers.
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“This government needs to provide more information about the new criteria to ensure none of our primary producers are stuck with undeserved and cruel land tax bills.”
The land tax thresholds introduced by the Allan Labor Government at the beginning of this year have quickly proven unpopular among residents across regional Victoria.
In the neighbouring Euroa electorate, numerous landholders received land tax bills for the first time, while many others faced significantly higher bills compared to previous years.
In 2024, 1,763 landowners in Mitchell Shire saw increased land tax liabilities compared to 2023, along with 437 landowners in Strathbogie Shire and 429 in Benalla facing the same outcome.
Ms Cleeland said her office had also spoken with several landowners in the region who had received inaccurate land tax bills.
“Beyond those with valid exemptions, my office has seen several residents receive land tax bills that should never have been issued,” Ms Cleeland said.
“This includes bills mistakenly sent to renters, to children, and even for people’s primary residences.”
“While we’ve managed to resolve many of these cases, it’s deeply concerning just how many incorrect bills were issued in this hasty roll-out of the land tax changes.
“When a government can’t manage its own money, it comes for yours.”
Information on land tax including how to apply for an exemption can be found online at www.sro.vic.gov.au/land-tax/land-tax-exemptions or by contacting the State Revenue Office (SRO) on 13 21 61 during standard business hours.
