Andrew Mathieson
GEELONG ratepayers will fork out an extra $1.5 million into State Government coffers from the new environmental landfill levy, according to a Geelong-based Opposition MP.
Upper House Member for Western Victoria David Koch said the government was using councils as a “revenue collection agency” in the guise of an environmental initiative.
“The burden will be passed onto ratepayers through higher fees and charges,” he said.
City Hall announced new charges in this week’s budget after Geelong councillors first raised fears of a 50 per cent tip hike more than a fortnight ago over changes to state legislation.
Dumping a trailer full of rubbish will now increase from $21 to $32.50 at the North Geelong and Drysdale resource recovery centres.
Garbage collection and disposal will also rise from $183.50 to $190.80 to cover the new government tax.
Minister for Environment and Climate Change Gavin Jennings told the Victorian parliament that councils that opposed the increased taxes were behind a “vexatious campaign” against the government.
“The Minister’s use of parliament to attack local councils demonstrates Labor’s heavy-handed approach toward Local Government,” Mr Koch said.
Councillor Stretch Kontelj told the Independent a fortnight ago that Geelong’s council would be forced to pass on the extra costs to residents.
Cr Kontelj said the latest levy that would hit families hard was “political soap-boxing”.
“The State Government is using municipal councils as revenue collectors without directing funds back to councils,” he said.