The Nationals’ Member for Morwell Martin Cameron has raised questions over the validity of land valuations made by the Allan Labor Government as part of its land tax scheme.
Several businesses and residents in the Latrobe Valley have approached Mr Cameron, sharing Land Tax Assessment Notices which show site values, or “taxable values”, for a parcel of land have inexplicably doubled in the space of a year.
“In one case, a small business in Morwell has received a notice in which the Valuer-General has alleged the value of its land subject to tax this year was $1.25 million,” Mr Cameron said.
“Last year the exact same parcel of land, which has remained in the same condition with no capital improvements made, was valued at $625,000 – representing a whopping 100 per cent increase.
“This adds up to one very hefty land tax bill, and the business has rightly questioned how it is possible that this land has doubled in value in 12 months.
“Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case, and I have been approached by other businesses and residents who have received land valuations that are frankly outrageous.
“I have asked the Valuer-General to justify the basis of its claim that single parcels of land, without modifications or capital improvements, can plausibly double in value year-on-year.
“This appears to a blatant, callous cash-grab from the Allan Labor Government as part of its land tax regime – all because it’s in such a financial mess that it’s headed towards a state debt of $186 billion.
“Land tax is suffocating small businesses, hurting mum and dad investors, and stifling economic growth right across the state.
“If you have received a Land Tax Assessment Notice and have questions about the associated land valuation, please contact my office via email to martin.cameron@parliament.vic.gov.au or phone on 5133 9088.”
