Episode 2 | April 2026 | "The Tax Episode"

Presented by Jellis Craig Geelong

In this episode: Victoria's land tax rules have changed significantly — and if you own an investment property in Geelong, your holding costs may have increased without you fully realising it yet. This month, Cale cuts through the complexity so you know exactly where you stand.

What we cover:

• The land tax threshold change that brought 380,000 additional Victorian landowners into the tax net
• The Vacant Residential Land Tax — what it is, who it affects, and how to avoid it
• The 7.5% short-stay levy now applying to Airbnb and Stayz properties statewide
• What the new vendor land tax rule means if you're planning to sell in 2026
• A five-step action checklist to protect your portfolio right now
• Why Geelong's property fundamentals remain genuinely strong despite the tax environment

Key numbers from this episode:

• Land tax-free threshold: reduced from $300,000 to $50,000 in site value
• VRLT rates: 1% year one | 2% year two | 3% year three onwards
• Short-stay levy: 7.5% on gross Airbnb / Stayz revenue
• Greater Geelong median house value: $793,000 — up 3.2% year on year
• Rental vacancy rate: consistently below 1.5% across most Geelong suburbs

Your five-step action checklist:

1. Review your 2026 State Revenue Office land tax assessment — you have 60 days to dispute errors
2. Check all Victorian landholdings for vacancy in 2025
3. Recalculate your cashflow with all new holding costs included
4. Review your ownership structure to minimise taxable land value
5. Speak to a tax adviser if you hold properties in trust

Get in touch with Cale: Mobile: 0400 466 115

Email: calemaddison@jelliscraig.com.au Web: jelliscraig.com.au

Don't miss — 2026 Investor & Property Information Night

Date: Thursday 4th June 2026

Time: Doors open 5:00 PM

| Speakers commence 5:30 PM

| Wraps 7:30 PM Venue: GMHBA Stadium — Kardinia Park, Higher/Mark Corporate Venue, Geelong

Admission: Free to attend | Places strictly limited RSVP: Email jelliscraiggeelong@jelliscraig.com.au to secure your spot

Featuring expert speakers including REIV President Jacob Caine, the latest Geelong and Victorian market insights, door prizes, and 200 of the region's most active property investors in the room.

Proudly supported by Safe Inspect.

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Real Talk with Cale Maddison is published monthly by Jellis Craig Geelong. This podcast is intended as general information only and does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice. Please consult a qualified professional regarding your individual circumstances.