Thursday, 2 April 2026

 Gaelle BROAD (Northern Victoria) (12:49): (2295) My question is to the Minister for Local Government and I seek his support for communities in Northern Victoria that are recovering from the bushfires. The summer bushfires caused widespread destruction to homes, farms and businesses and disrupted power utilities and transport, devastating local economies and livelihoods. In Harcourt over 50 homes and businesses were destroyed, and the Longwood fires severely damaged or destroyed 110 homes, three community facilities, 85 sheds, 13 bridges, 197 kilometres of roads and over 2300 kilometres of fencing. Over 22,000 hectares of farmland were impacted, and more than 30,000 livestock were lost. I spoke with a farmer from Yarck last night who has lost his home, his fencing and his farm and is facing the long road to recovery. He is one of so many in need of support. It is a precedent that rate relief has been given to communities impacted by disasters. Will the state government guarantee rate relief for properties in Northern Victoria impacted by the summer bushfires to support their recovery?