THE Victorian bushfires have wreaked havoc across the state earlier this year, with over 450 homes lost and more damaged, leaving many Victorians displaced.
As the smoke still lingered over the hectares of fire-ravaged land, criticism began to mount from multiple sources over the handling of the bushfire, with finger-pointing from many sides. When the blame game begins, it is the people on the ground most affected who become lost in statistics.
Member for Northern Victoria MP Wendy Lovell has been a strong advocate in this space, but the Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery Vicki Ward feels the recent criticism of the State Government’s response to people displaced by the fires has been misinformed.
“The Member is wrong. While she and Jess Wilson are busy playing politics and spreading misinformation, we’ve been on the ground since day one helping families recover and rebuild,” said Ms Ward.
“From when the fires first started, we moved quickly to provide emergency accommodation, and we’re now delivering longer-term solutions to make sure bushfire-affected Victorians continue to have a safe place to stay throughout their recovery.
“Along with the Commonwealth, we have delivered more than $420 million to help bushfire-affected Victorians pick up the pieces following these devastating fires — and we’ll always consider what more we can do.”
The modular housing program is the latest step in the State Government’s ongoing recovery efforts, while families work through retaining foundations, insurance arrangements and obtaining the permits needed for rebuilding.
Previous efforts include support for mental health, livestock fodder, clean-up, and for local councils, through funding from the State and Commonwealth Governments, as Victorians pick up the pieces.
The disaster recovery programs are not designed to replace insurance. Insurance companies also need to play their role in delivering timely support for their clients.
Anyone needing support is encouraged to contact the Emergency Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760 to be connected with the support they need.
