New land tax thresholds introduced by the Allan Labor Government has seen many Mildura landholders receiving a land tax bill for the first time this year.
However, Nationals Member for Mildura, Jade Benham is urging landholders to check their liability before paying, as reports of land tax bills being incorrectly issued to people, organisations and community groups eligible for exemptions come to light.
Ms Benham said the Nationals opposed the legislation that was rammed through State Parliament last year, that saw the valuation threshold for land tax exemption reduce from $300,000 to just $50,000.
“This has led to many people getting a land tax bill for the first time which has been shocking to many households battling the cost-of-living crisis,” said Ms Benham.
“It is important to note that while you may no longer be eligible for an exemption based on property value, there are other criteria for exemption.
“The most common exemption is if the property is your principal place of residence or if the land is used for primary production, however there are also other exemptions that certain community groups and not-for-profit organisations may be eligible for.
“I am urging anyone who has received a land tax bill for the first time and is unsure of their rights to make enquiries and ensure that they are not paying tax they shouldn’t be.”
Information on land tax including how to apply for an exemption can be found online at https://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.
Ms Benham said new land tax charges, which the Allan Labor Government says is a key element in its COVID Debt Repayment Plan, are unfair without bills being sent to people and organisations who should be exempt.
“In the midst of a cost-of-living crisis it is wrong that everyday Victorians are being punished with increased taxes to make up for Labor’s inability to manage money.
“With Victorians already paying the highest taxes per person of any state in Australia according to the ABS, including the highest property taxes per capita in the nation, I want to ensure that landholders know of any exemptions they are entitled to.”
