Fire Levy payment to change

Published on 08 February 2017

My role as Mayor of Fairfield City is to keep you informed of changes that affect residents of Fairfield.

The State Government made the decision that Councils need to collect the NSW Emergency Services Property Levy (or fire levy) on its behalf.

From July 2017, the State Government requires Council to collect this levy, which is about $160 a year, through your Council rates notice.

Previously, the fire levy was collected on behalf of the State Government by insurance companies through your home and contents and other insurance premiums.

Council has advocated to the State Government against this change and does not want to take the role of collecting the State Government levy. The Government says it has made this change so the burden of funding will no longer fall only on those with property insurance, but on all landowners.

If you are one of the many people who insure your property, then from 1 July your insurance policy should reduce. The State Government has said your insurance premiums should reduce by about $200 to compensate for their increase on collection with the rates.

I urge you to first check your insurance policy to ensure the levy has been removed (from 1 July 2017). You should contact your insurance company if your premium has not reduced. Any concerns or complaints can be made to the Emergency Services Levy Insurance Monitor via email at enquiries@eslinsurancemonitor.nsw.gov.au or on 1300 607 723; or contact your local State Member as this is a State Government policy.

Lunar New Year celebrations

Happy New Year! Xin Nian Kuai le! Chuc Mung Nam Moi!

Cabramatta will take on a festive atmosphere this weekend as Fairfield City celebrates Lunar New Year.

The Cabramatta Lunar New Year Festival is an important cultural time for residents of Fairfield City and the wider Sydney community. Fairfield City Council is proud of its unique diversity and harmonious community and is committed to important cultural events such as Lunar New Year.

Council has a fantastic line-up of entertainment and activities planned for Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 4pm on both days. I hope to see you there!

It 's going to be a magical time in Cabramatta for Lunar New Year this weekend! Pictured is Ravi Wasan (from Feathered Friends Bird Show) and Julian Yu (from The BlackTies magicians).