Melbourne traffic: Major delays as over 100 fire trucks block roads in protest ahead of state budget reveal
Commuters in the Melbourne CBD are experiencing major delays as dozens of fire trucks drive block roads in protest ahead of the state budget reveal on Tuesday.
More than 100 fire trucks are driving through the city and from various areas across Victoria to Melbourne’s CBD to protest against a recently passed emergency services levy.
The plan is to stop in the CBD with lights and sirens on to disrupt parliament as the state budget is handed down, 7 NEWS reported.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The fleet of fire trucks were travelling through peak hour traffic along major roads, causing delays of up to 20 minutes for Melbourne drivers.
It is unknown where the dozens of fire trucks are going to stop when they reach parliament.
Victorian Treasurer Jaclyn Symes will deliver her first state budget after replacing Tim Pallas in the role less than six months ago.
Her budget announcement risks being overshadowed as firefighters plan to swarm the steps of Parliament House upon their arrival.
Many of the firefighters protesting are farmers who volunteer for the Country Fire Authority (CFA).
The emergency services levy, announced in December, was originally forecast to raise an extra $2.14 billion over the next three years to cover more emergency and disaster bodies.
While it passed through parliament, it received backlash due to the government compromising on rebates for emergency volunteers and a slightly decreased levy rate for farmers.
Some farmers warn their bills could soar by tens of thousands of dollars, a crushing blow as they battle through one of the driest periods in decades.
CFA volunteers are already furious about having to pay extra tax, despite giving their time to protect their communities.
