The Commonwealth and Victorian Governments continue to support the resettlement and re-establishment of the Wye River and Separation Creek communities, more than 12 months after the devastating Christmas Day bushfire that impacted 116 properties.
A total of $1.15 million has been committed to by the Commonwealth, under Category D of the jointly-funded Commonwealth-State Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) to assist in building retaining walls and road stabilisation.
The Victorian Government will be contributing $4.5 million for the implementation of effective drainage and erosion management, building of retaining walls and road stabilisation works to help ensure better land stability and reduce the risk to lives and properties.
During the past 12 months since the bushfires, the communities have undergone a major clean-up and re-establishment process. This includes new public infrastructure and more than six homes either completed or currently being rebuilt.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Justice Michael Keenan:
“The Commonwealth Government is committed to helping the Wye River and Separation Creek communities with their recovery.”
“As a result of the bushfires, numerous local roads have been closed to protect road users and there is also an increased risk of landslip affecting residential properties.”
“This disaster funding will be used for a range of land stabilisation activities, including repairing retaining wall structures that were damaged by the bushfires.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino:
“The funding will also be used to support the ongoing recovery effort from the 2015 Christmas Day bushfires.”
“The Andrews Labor Government supports the Wye River and Separation Creek communities, and we are taking action to continue to support resettlement after the devastating bushfires.”
Information regarding disaster assistance available can be found on the Vic Emergency website at or the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at
Reviewed 19 August 2020