Thursday, 19 March 2026

 Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice) (12:19): I rise to update the house on the support the Allan Labor government has delivered to businesses impacted by the January 2026 Victorian bushfires. My thoughts are with the communities, workers and small business owners who have been hit hard by these devastating fires. Many local businesses lost stock, trade and visitors during what should have been one of the busiest times of the year. That is why we moved quickly to waive this year’s liquor licence renewal fees for businesses in bushfire-affected areas, with refunds provided to those who had already paid. Additional waivers have also been provided to businesses outside the immediate bushfire-affected areas who lost stock when the Harcourt Co-operative Cool Stores facility was destroyed by fire.

Pubs, wineries, distilleries, cafes and bottle shops are a vital part of regional life. They support local jobs, attract visitors to towns and are often the beating heart of these communities. At a time when small businesses are already dealing with rising costs, this support helps to take the pressure off their books. Many of the communities affected are in the Western Victoria Region, and I want to acknowledge the advocacy of my colleagues Minister Tierney and Ms Ermacora for local businesses during this difficult time. I also want to express my sympathy to the many communities in the electorate who have been impacted by these fires. This relief is part of broader support that the Allan Labor government has rolled out to help communities recover from the January bushfires. We will continue standing for regional communities and backing local businesses that support jobs, tourism and the life of our towns across our great state.