Premier

Reducing Bushfire Risk For Healesville And Yarra Ranges

22 September 2017

Communities in high-risk bushfire areas are safer thanks to the Andrews Labor Government burying powerlines to significantly reduce the risk to lives and property from bushfires.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio today visited Healesville to view works being carried out as part of the Government’s $750 million Powerline Bushfire Safety Program.

The Program was established to deliver on recommendations made by the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission to reduce the risk of powerlines starting bushfires.

The high voltage powerline replacement works in Healesville, due for completion in January 2018, are being accelerated for the upcoming summer season.

This will see a total of 43km of bare-wire high voltage powerlines replaced with safer technology, ensuring residents will benefit from increased safety.

Healesville and the surrounding region will also benefit from other safety initiatives including:

  • Installation of a new sophisticated protection device at the Woori Yallock zone sub-station protecting over 650 km of powerlines
  • Installation of 60 adjustable automatic circuit reclosers
  • The provision of three back-up generators in residential care facilities in Healesville and a further nine in residential care facilities in the Yarra Valley.

The Labor Government is calling for final applications from all regional Victorians interested in applying to the Powerline Replacement Fund to underground their bare-wire overhead powerlines before applications close in February 2018.

Property owners interested in taking part should check their eligibility at www.energy.vic.gov.au/electricity/powerline-replacement-fundExternal Link

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“We’re keeping the residents of Healesville and the surrounding areas safer from the risk of bushfires. These are not just words, it’s practical action.”

“The risk this summer is very real and we’re working to ensure Victorians have the best possible protection against bushfires.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino

"By burying these powerlines people in Healesville and surrounding areas will be safer if bushfires strike."

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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