Minister for Justice Michael Keenan and Victorian Minister for Emergency Services Jane Garrett today announced disaster assistance in response to the Mount Bolton and Somerville bushfires which occurred on 23 February 2016.
Disaster assistance is being provided through the jointly-funded Commonwealth-State Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).
Eligible individuals in the local government area of Ballarat that were affected by the Mount Bolton Bushfire will now be able to access the following emergency grants to relieve personal hardship and distress:
- Emergency Relief Assistance, which provides payments of up to $520 per adult and $260 per child (up to a maximum of $1,300 per household) available to help meet immediate needs, including emergency food, shelter, clothing, and personal items.
- Emergency Re-establishment Payments, which provide up to $32,500 per eligible household for clean-up, emergency accommodation, repairs, rebuilding (a principal place of residence), and replacing some damaged contents.
In addition, individuals and families affected by the Mount Bolton and Somerville bushfires will be able to access personal and financial counselling; and Ballarat City Council, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and state agencies will be able to seek assistance with the costs of clean-up operations and the restoration of essential public assets.
Anyone who has been affected by the bushfires and is suffering personal hardship and distress should call the Victorian Emergency Recovery Information Line on 1300 799 232 to find out about the assistance that is available.
Information about the assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at and through Emergency Relief and Recovery Victoria ( or 1300 799 232).
Quotes attributable to Commonwealth Minister for Justice, The Hon Michael Keenan:
“The Australian and Victorian governments recognise the need for swift and effective action to help communities and families recover from these devastating bushfires.”
“This assistance includes a number of measures to help with the cost of relief and recovery.”
"The Australian and Victorian governments are committed to working together to assist disaster affected communities."
Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Emergency Services Jane Garrett:
“The emergency grants will help affected communities with any immediate needs and also provide support to help re-establish homes destroyed by the bushfires.”
“February is typically our most dangerous month for bushfires. The summer fire season isn’t over yet and we are urging all Victorians to stay vigilant and be aware of your local conditions.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020