Bushfire Recovery Victoria (BRV) has unveiled a new blueprint for the State’s fire-affected regions, with more than $110 million for local projects to create jobs and help communities recover from last summer’s devastating bushfires.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Lisa Neville said BRV’s Eastern Victoria Fires 2019-20 State Recovery Plan set out the journey ahead for bushfire-affected communities over the next 12 to 18 months, as they moved from the short-term ‘stabilising’ phase to rebuilding and recovery.
“With the clean-up almost complete, the State Recovery Plan now helps bushfire-affected communities turn to the next stage in the journey – getting back on their feet, getting works underway and getting things done,” Ms Neville said.
“We’re delivering 18 critical, region-wide projects right now, and a further $34.3 million for projects shaped and supported by local communities into the future,” she said.
Ms Neville said the Plan outlined $78.06 million for region-wide projects vital for recovery.
She said the State Recovery Plan also delivered $34.3 million towards the Local Economic Recovery program, matching a previous Commonwealth Government contribution.
“The State Recovery Plan is underpinned by the State Recovery Framework and sets an agenda for recovery across the natural environment, buildings and infrastructure, business and economy and health and wellbeing,” she said.
“In an Australian first, the Plan also sets out a recovery plan for Aboriginal culture and healing – recognising the unique impact of the disaster on Aboriginal community and Country,” Ms Neville said.
