SENATOR PERIN DAVEY
DEPUTY LEADER OF THE NATIONALS
SHADOW MINISTER FOR WATER
SHADOW MINISTER FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
SENATOR FOR NEW SOUTH WALES
DR ANNE WEBSTER MP
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR REGIONAL HEALTH
MEMBER FOR MALLEE
JOINT MEDIA RELEASE
The Grampians – Wallaby Rocks and Little Desert bushfires, which ignited on 17 December 2024 and intensified on 27 January 2025, have now been contained thanks to extensive firefighting efforts.
While conditions remain challenging, the focus is shifting from emergency response to emergency recovery but farmers and small businesses in the region are still waiting to hear if assistance will be forthcoming.
Shadow Emergency Management Minister, Perin Davey, has called on the Victorian and Federal Government to fast-track assessment to expand Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) for small business and primary producers.
“Western Victoria has endured immense challenges, with continued uncertainty and financial hardship.
“Immediate support for councils and evacuation centres have been rolled out but the expanded support for farmers and tourism operators is waiting on State Government assessment.
“In Australia at the moment we are seeing the tale of two disasters with businesses in far north Queensland eligible for Disaster Assistance Loans while businesses in western Victoria are still waiting,” Senator Davey said.
The fires burnt over 230,000 hectares across the regions, causing significant damage, including the loss of several homes, outbuildings, livestock, and wildlife, with lasting impacts on local agriculture and tourism.
“It is vital that both state and federal governments act quickly to restore confidence and support these devastated communities,” said Senator Davey.
Member for Mallee, Dr Anne Webster MP, has been raising concerns about the crippling financial impact on tourism-dependent communities.
“The impact of these fires on Mallee communities is devastating, not just in terms of property loss but also the long-term damage to local economies. Halls Gap alone has lost an estimated $21 million in tourism revenue, with the region conservatively estimated to suffer a further $19 million hit in flow-on costs.
“While some other disaster affected areas of the country have already received critical disaster assistance, local Mallee communities are still waiting due to Government inaction. The Victorian and Federal Government must fast-track support for our farmers and tourism operators before it’s too late.” Dr Webster said.
ENDS