Land Tax Obligations for Victorian Property Owners: What You Need to Know

 

Land Tax Obligations for Victorian Property Owners: What You Need to Know

If you own property in Victoria, you may be required to pay land tax, including Vacant Residential Land Tax (VRLT).

VRLT is an annual tax applied to residential land that is vacant for more than six months in the preceding calendar year. For example, if your property was vacant during 2025, VRLT may be payable in 2026.

From 1 January 2026, VRLT will also apply to land in metropolitan Melbourne that has remained undeveloped for five continuous years or more and is capable of residential development.
Some land may be exempt; however, a notification is still required to apply for any exemption, which must be completed by 15 February 2026. You can make a notification to apply for an exemption through the State Revenue Office here.

In addition, an Absentee Owner Surcharge may apply if you own Victorian property but live outside Australia (subject to visa status). Absentee owners must notify the State Revenue Office by 15 January 2026. This surcharge is applied on top of general land tax and trust surcharge rates. Penalties may apply if notification is not made. To notify the SRO of your absentee owner status by 15 January 2026 click here

If you are unsure how these changes affect you, or require assistance with notifications or exemptions, please contact our office on 03 8746 7700 and speak with your Accountant.

 

 

 


Information obtained and referenced from the State Revenue Office of Victoria.
Sunbury Essendon