26 September 2023

Support for fire-affected communities

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Bushfire Recovery Victoria is set to fast-track a range of initiatives aimed at providing financial relief for fire-affected communities.

Premier Daniel Andrews and Bushfire Recovery Victoria Chair, Ken Lay announced a $64 million package to offer support to councils, businesses and local families hit hard by bushfires.

Mr Lay said the package included: payroll tax relief; stamp duty concessions, to allow business to relocate or expand; waived water rates and provision of rebates; financial support for local councils; small business advisors stationed locally; and support for the wine industry.

Mr Andrews said the Government would also establish a $10 million Council Assistance Fund, to be administered by Bushfire Recovery Victoria, for local governments to access funding for people with damaged property, support businesses subject to annual charges or permits, or to waive other fees or charges.

“Eligible councils will be able to determine how best to allocate their funding, which may include rate relief for residents and businesses if they choose,” Mr Andrews said.

“As part of the package, the Government will also waive administration fees associated with VicRoads registration refunds for vehicles that have been damaged or destroyed, saving owners up to $60,” he said.

Mr Andrews said the Government would also waive associated costs and fast-track requests for replacement of birth and wedding certificates destroyed by the bushfires.

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