Victoria: Bushfires

Chesters acknowledged the anxiety faced by regional communities during fire season and praised the efforts of emergency volunteers and personnel. Chesters noted that disaster recovery allowances had been activated for affected individuals in specific local government areas and that joint funding for small businesses was under discussion. Chesters highlighted the establishment of the Insurance Affordability and Natural Hazards Risk Reduction Taskforce to address rising insurance costs and emphasised the role of the Disaster Ready Fund in building community resilience.

Tehan commended the motion and urged the Victorian government to expedite support for businesses in the Grampians region. Tehan described the significant loss of income for tourist towns during peak seasons due to visitor cancellations and stock waste. Tehan argued that while Category A and B funding had been accessed, the state government needed to quickly apply for Category D assistance to help small businesses recover from the financial strain.

Rae detailed the extensive damage caused by the fires, including evacuations and infrastructure disruption, while praising the resilience of local communities. Rae confirmed that disaster recovery allowances were available for affected residents and that the federal government was co-funding relief efforts and working with the state on further assistance. Rae acknowledged the collaborative approach between members and the Victorian government and thanked emergency services personnel for their tireless work.

Violi highlighted the bipartisan nature of the motion and celebrated the volunteer spirit of Country Fire Authority members who travelled to assist in the Grampians. Violi urged Australians to visit the region to support struggling businesses and noted the long-term mental and economic stress faced by communities after disasters. Violi also raised the broader issue of insurance accessibility in disaster-prone areas and called for continued bipartisan efforts to find solutions.