The fire levy, drought & regional farmers: a personal and policy perspective (Business Development)

In this episode, Sam offers a personal and practical perspective on how drought and the new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) are impacting Victorian farmers and rural communities.

She unpacks the changes to the fire levy, set to take effect in July 2025, and explains what these reforms mean for primary producers already managing the challenges of low rainfall, rising costs, and increased financial pressures.

Sam also highlights the tough decisions being made by regional families and businesses and calls for a greater understanding of the real pressures facing Victoria’s agricultural sector.

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With the help of AI, Sam has reviewed a wide range of sources see transcript.