Relief on Land Tax and Stamp Duty Available
The 2026–27 Victorian State Budget announced relief measures from land tax, vacant residential land tax and land transfer (stamp) duty for people affected by the January 2026 Victorian bushfires.The Victorian Government has announced a range of tax relief measures through the State Revenue Office, which may help ease some of the financial pressure during recovery.
These measures may include: Land tax waivers for properties that were destroyed, significantly damaged, or impacted by financial loss
Vacant residential land tax waivers where homes cannot be lived in or accessed
Stamp duty (land transfer duty) relief or refunds for eligible households
You can find full details, including eligibility and how to apply, here: Bushfire relief measures | State Revenue Office
Please note that eligibility criteria apply, and applications are required to access this support. If you’re unsure whether you qualify or need help navigating the process, we encourage you to reach out — support is available.
Timing of Rates Notices
- The next instalment of Rates Notices will be postponed. Rates notices will be sent out at the end of February and will now be due in March.
- Properties impacted by fire will not be issued with a rates notice to allow damage assessments to be copleted and ratings values to be reassessed.
Re-evaluation of Affected Properties
- Strathbogie Shire Council is currently conducting Secondary Impact Assessments (SIAs) on fire-affected properties. This provides data for assessment, a process which can take 3 - 4 months. Rates notices won't be issued to affected properties until this is completed.