Minister for Justice Michael Keenan and Victorian Deputy Premier James Merlino today announced $850,000 in funding for projects that will enhance bushfire mitigation in Victoria.
Mr Keenan said the funding will be provided under the Commonwealth’s $15 million National Bushfire Mitigation Programme to better prepare communities from the threat of bushfires.
“In Australia, bushfires are unfortunately an inevitable and devastating occurrence and the impact they can have on not only lives but also homes and wildlife is often overwhelming,” Mr Keenan said.
“That is why the Australian and Victorian Governments are working together to ensure that our communities are disaster prepared and disaster resilient.
“This Programme allows Victoria to identify projects that are essential to mitigating the severity and impact of bushfires while giving communities the capability to safely respond to them.”
Deputy Premier Merlino said the state’s focus is on mitigating environmental risk factors and ensuring communities are aware of the role they can play in building disaster resilience against bushfires.
The projects to be funded over 2016/17 includes:
- Construction of fire breaks and fire access tracks around rural townships and cities;
- Fuel management activities;
- Water supply security improvements;
- Programs to test and improve fire readiness; and
- An arson prevention program
“Devastating bushfires have touched the lives of many Victorians,” Mr Merlino said.
“These projects will help communities better respond to bushfires and make sure fire-prone regions are more resilient and prepared for the coming fire season.
“They will also help manage environmental risks, such as fuel reduction on properties.”
The Australian Government partners with all states and territories through the National Bushfire Mitigation Programme to build on existing bushfire management practices and implement strategies to address bushfire risk.
From this funding, $150,000 will be provided to Victoria to purchase and install 10 automatic fire danger rating signs that will advise people in local areas of current fire danger ratings.
For a full list of 2016-17 successful recipients please visit . For further information please refer to the Emergency Management Victoria website at .
Reviewed 19 August 2020