Joint media release with Hon Paul Edbrooke MP
The Albanese and Carroll Governments are delivering a $55.5 million package to support the environmental and economic recovery of flood and bushfire affected regions in Victoria.
Delivered under the joint Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the funding will ensure the repair, preservation and restoration of assets such as roads, bridges, waterways, boundary fencing and recreational and tourism sites.
Almost $42 million will support the delivery of these activities in areas across the state impacted by the January 2026 bushfires.
Additionally, almost $6 million will go towards the restoration of the Great Victorian Rail Trail (GRVT), including public safety and risk mitigation works.
A further $1 million will support residents with the reinstatement of essential domestic water and wastewater systems.
The fires had extensive impacts on the Victoria’s natural and built environments across 23 local government areas and one alpine resort. They burned through more than 438,000 hectares of land.
A further $6.5 million will ensure environmental support is delivered following the significant impacts from the Wye River – Lorne flood on 15 January 2026.
Funding will go towards the reparation of hazardous tree removal, reopening visitor precincts, delivery of biodiversity programs including weed management, and assessments of threatened animal species.
Along with wildlife and biodiversity treatments, cultural heritage and traditional owner engagement will ensure that recovery is underpinned by self-determination principles and that culturally sensitive places are protected.
Victorians can still access help and recovery information by calling the Emergency Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain
“I saw firsthand the devastating impacts natural disaster had across parts of Victoria earlier this year and my message was simple – the Albanese Government is here for the long haul.
“We know recovery has a long tail and that’s why we’re committing this further support to restore damaged environments and community assets.
“This funding will prioritise work to restore access and reopen recreational and tourism sites that support regional communities and local economies to bring some of the best natural environments Victoria has to offer back to life.”
Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Emergency Services Paul Edbrooke
“This year’s bushfires and floods have had a lasting effect on Victoria’s landscape, environment and economy, and we are committed to supporting impacted regions in their recovery.
“Sensitive ecosystems and biodiversity are essential to native wildlife, and it is important that we prioritise ecological programs when we talk about holistic recovery.
“The repair and restoration of roads, bridges, waterways and recreational sites will provide communities, businesses and local economies with a helping hand.”
