The Andrews Labor Government has announced a $2.75 million assistance package to help Great Ocean Road communities affected by the Christmas Day bushfires rebuild and get back on their feet.
The package includes a $1 million Economic and Community Recovery Fund. The fund will go towards locally driven recovery priorities and support local businesses and community organisations.
Assistance will also be provided for demolition and clean-up of fire affected properties in Wye River and Separation Creek, as well as the establishment of a ‘one-stop-shop’ to provide support and advice on rebuilding.
A single contractor will be appointed to oversee all works associated with clean up and demolition. The Labor Government is working in close partnership with the insurers and the Colac Otway Shire Council to finalise arrangements for Grocon to oversee all works associated to facilitate a safe and effective clean up and demolition.
Costs for demolition and clean-up of properties and roads will be shared between insurers and by the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).
Government assistance announced today for clean-up is in addition to support already being provided under the Commonwealth-State Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) announced on 21 December.
$850,000 has been allocated for local government recovery workers and for the establishment of the ‘one stop shop’. The ‘one stop shop’ will provide the community members with information and advice on clean up, planning and rebuilding, as well as general information.
The Government will also contribute $500,000 for infrastructure in Wye River including water pipes and pumps at the Wye Foreshore, walking paths and camping amenities.
In addition to the Great Ocean Road Economic and Community Support Fund a further $400,000 will go towards support for business mentoring, advertising and marketing, and support for events in communities affected by the Wye River Jamieson Track bushfire.
Quotes attributable to Acting Premier James Merlino
“We will support businesses and residents in affected communities every step of the way, to help them clean up, rebuild, and get on with their lives.”
“The Andrews Labor Government is pleased to be working closely with local and Commonwealth governments, as well as business and insurers, to support communities on the Great Ocean Road to get back on their feet.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020