Thursday, 19 March 2026

 Rikkie-Lee TYRRELL (Northern Victoria) (12:45): (1284) My question today is for the Minister for Environment. Another firewood season has begun, and yet again several local government areas in my region of Northern Victoria have been left off the map. It is like we have been forgotten yet again. This time of year is the perfect time for people to be out collecting wood to heat their homes in the upcoming winter months. With the ever-rising cost of living, some residents in these areas rely solely on solid fuel to heat their homes. Minister, why have these local council areas been left off the firewood collection map?

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water) (12:46): I thank Ms Tyrrell for her question and her advocacy on behalf of her constituents. This matter will be referred to the Minister for Environment for a response.

 Rikkie-Lee TYRRELL (Northern Victoria) (12:46): I thank the minister for passing that on. Firewood is a daily necessity for elderly and disabled people and families in the Northern Victoria Region. The recent bushfires have already shown the damage and public safety risks that can result from locking up public forests. Will the minister ensure that designated firewood collection points are located in all local government areas in regional Victoria?

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water) (12:46): I thank Ms Tyrrell for her supplementary. Like her substantive question, it will be referred to the Minister for Environment.