General News
12 February, 2025
Better government assistance called on for bushfire affected communities
Dr Anne Webster, Senator Perin Davey call for more government help.
Federal member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster and shadow minister for emergency management, Senator Perin Davey are calling for greater government assistance for those affected by the fires that burned more than 230,000 ha of land in and around the Grampians and Little Desert National Parks this summer.
While conditions remain challenging, the focus is shifting from emergency response to emergency recovery.
Senator Davey, has called on the Victorian and federal government to fast-track assessment to expand Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) for small business and primary producers.
"Western Victoria has endured immense challenges, with continued uncertainty and financial hardship," she said.
"Immediate support for councils and evacuation centres have been rolled out but the expanded support for farmers and tourism operators is waiting on state government assessment.
"In Australia at the moment we are seeing the tale of two disasters with businesses in far north Queensland eligible for Disaster Assistance Loans while businesses in western Victoria are still waiting."
The fires caused significant damage across the regions, including the loss of several homes, outbuildings, livestock, and wildlife, with lasting impacts on local agriculture and tourism.
"It is vital that both state and federal governments act quickly to restore confidence and support these devastated communities," said Senator Davey.
Member for Mallee, Dr Anne Webster, has been raising concerns about the crippling financial impact on tourism-dependent communities.
"The impact of these fires on Mallee communities is devastating, not just in terms of property loss but also the long-term damage to local economies," she said.
"Halls Gap alone has lost an estimated $21 million in tourism revenue, with the region conservatively estimated to suffer a further $19 million hit in flow-on costs.
"While some other disaster affected areas of the country have already received critical disaster assistance, local Mallee communities are still waiting due to Government inaction.
"The Victorian and federal government must fast-track support for our farmers and tourism operators before it's too late."