Environmental restoration work, including the re-seeding of forests and rehabilitation of affected flora and fauna needs to be funded by the Victorian Government, according the Liberal Nationals. Source: Timberbiz
The Liberal Nationals believe a dedicated fund is required to ensure the rebuilding needs of local communities are met.
They say that given the Australian Government has committed $2 billion and the NSW Government has committed $1 billion, the Andrews Labor Government should establish a Victorian Bushfire Recovery Fund with a minimum of $500 million over the next two years.
“The Federal and NSW governments have stepped up to with a dedicated bushfire recovery fund. The Andrews Labor Government now has a responsibility to step up with a dedicated fund to assist communities to rebuild and recover,” The Leader of the Opposition, Michael O’Brien, said.
“Families, farmers, businesses and communities deserve to know their immediate and ongoing needs will be met at a time when they need it most.’’
The Liberal Nationals say a Bushfire Recovery Fund should provide for:
Post bushfire clean-up and demolition programs, as well as rebuilding and replacing public and farm infrastructure lost or damaged as a result of the bushfires;
Assistance for community recovery from bushfires, including grants for rebuilding community facilities;
Environmental restoration work, including the re-seeding of forests and rehabilitation of affected flora and fauna;
Support packages for local small businesses and tourism operators impacted by the bushfires, including specific tourism promotion campaigns for bushfire-affected areas; and
Mental health support programs to help individuals and families through the aftermath of the devastating loss of life and property.
“Our country communities have shown tremendous resilience, but they will need ongoing support to get back on their feet,’’ the leader of The Nationals, Peter Walsh, said.
“Each community is unique, with unique needs. A dedicated recovery fund will ensure local people have a say in making sure this money is directed where it’s needed most.”
