Public invited to consult on New Zealand’s Fire and Emergency levy proposals

On 8 April 2024, Fire and Emergency New Zealand announced the commencement of a public consultation process regarding the proposed Fire and Emergency levy for the period from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2029.

Funded primarily through levies on insurance policies including home, contents, non-residential, and vehicle policies, Fire and Emergency serves as the nation’s primary fire authority and an emergency responder for most communities.

The public and stakeholders are encouraged to provide written submissions on the proposed levy adjustments and planned activities for the upcoming period.

Overview of the proposed changes

The consultation seeks feedback on a proposed 5.2 percent increase in the overall levy amount, which is necessary to maintain the current level of services.

Additionally, there are plans to modify the levy’s application across different insurance policy types to improve equity and reflect the incidents Fire and Emergency responds to more accurately.

This initiative aims to ensure sustainable funding for Fire and Emergency services across New Zealand, with the consultation period ending on 17 May 2024 at 5pm.

Accessing more information and submitting feedback

Details on how to participate in the consultation and submit feedback are available on Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s official website.

The organisation emphasised the importance of public input in shaping the final decisions regarding levy rates for 2026-2029, encouraging contributions from all interested parties.

IFSJ Comment

The initiation of public consultation allows stakeholders, including insurance policyholders and the general public, to have a say in the funding mechanism that supports a vital component of the nation’s safety infrastructure.

By engaging with the community and seeking diverse perspectives, Fire and Emergency New Zealand demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and fairness in its funding model.

As the consultation progresses, it will be interesting to see how feedback from the public influences the final levy arrangements, potentially setting a precedent for future funding practices in public service sectors.