Budget Farmers feeling the rate squeeze If Phillip Island's farmland is to be protected, farmers need greater rate relief. by . Published May 28, 2024 Link copied! Copy failed! Bill shock: Surf Beach farmer Bill Cleeland told Bass Coast Shire councillors last week farmers needed a review of rates on agricultural land, with landholders paying more than twice the State Government's rate cap. Updated September 04, 2025 9:00 am | 2 months ago Link copied! Copy failed!