Wednesday, 3 December 2025

 Daniela DE MARTINO (Monbulk) (19:03): (1460) My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Consumer Affairs, and the action I seek is for the minister to explore options for ensuring that every person moving into a bushfire-prone area in this state receives clear, practical information about bushfire risk and preparedness. The Monbulk district is a truly beautiful part of Victoria, home to the Dandenong Ranges, lush forests and vibrant communities, but it is also one of the most bushfire-prone areas in the world. The Yarra Ranges has been identified as Victoria’s highest bushfire-risk region, with thousands of homes at risk if a major fire occurs. What concerns me is that around a third of the residents in this region are new to our area within the past five years, and many may not fully understand the bushfire risk or what they need to do to prepare. This is not just about protecting property, it is also about saving lives. Providing clear information at the point of moving into the ranges, whether through real estate transactions, rental agreements or consumer information channels, could make a significant difference to people’s preparedness. It would help new residents understand the risks and take steps to prepare, such as creating a fire plan and knowing where to find local resources. This could be a simple, practical measure that could strengthen community safety not only in my very fire-prone district of Monbulk but across our wonderful state. I look forward to the minister’s response.