In the wake of the recent bushfire incidents that hit small businesses and communities in Western Victoria, the Federal government and the State government of Victoria will be providing a total of more than $29 million in assistance to support their immediate and long-term recovery.
The aid provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) will consist of two components. One of these components is valued at more than $24 million which will deliver crucial support to Western Victoria businesses affected by the bushfires, including:
- A dedicated Business Bushfire Recovery Grant program to provide $5,000 grants to small businesses and eligible primary producers that have experienced significant disruptions and revenue losses due to the bushfires.
- A Business Recovery Advisory service which will be available on the ground and through the Business Victoria website, providing free business support for impacted businesses so they can find the right strategies for long-term recovery.
- Tourism marketing and promotional activities to boost visitor numbers to the Grampians region, which is on top of $100,000 for Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism to deliver immediate, on-the-ground industry support activities for affected businesses in the region.
The other component is valued at more than $5 million provides for an early environmental recovery package that will support the survival of key native species and the recovery and restoration of fire-impacted public lands, waterways and catchments within Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.
A Gate Fee Rebate Program will also be made available in selected local government areas, which will help communities dispose waste relating to the impact of the bushfires from private properties free of charge.
This support follows the previously announced Emergency Relief Payments, which were jointly funded and delivered through the Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing’s Personal Hardship Assistance Program (PHAP). Thus far, more than $1.3 million has been paid through PHAP.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Jenny McAllister said, “These programs will support small businesses in the area as they recover from these significant fire events. We are working with the Victorian Government to assist impacted communities as they continue with their recovery.”
Victorian Minister for Emergency Services Vicki Ward also shared, “The work done since the fires began has been incredible. Everyone has done whatever they can to help – from our emergency services, councils, community groups and more.”
Ward added, “It’s been a challenging and disappointing summer for locals after numerous fires and evacuations. The Grampians have officially moved from being in an emergency response to recovery – this support will help keep that momentum moving and encourage more people back to one of the most beautiful part of Victoria.”
Victorian Minister Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman stated, “We’re supporting our small businesses in Western Victoria to get back on their feet following the bushfires. Through recovery grants, tourism support and dedicated business advice, we can keep the doors open to one of the most beautiful parts of Victoria.”
