General News
15 February, 2025
Little Desert and Grampians fires contained
After a mammoth effort from CFA members and volunteers fighting bushfires burning in the Grampians and the Little Desert, both have been declared 'contained'.
The fires burnt over 230,000 hectares across the regions, causing damage including the loss of homes, livestock and wildlife, with lasting impacts on local agriculture and tourism.
Firefighters from the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Northern Territory and South Australia joined the crews from Victoria to battle the blazes.
And on Saturday came the news that locals had been waiting for regarding the Little Desert National Park, with a Vic Emergency notification declaring the fires contained, but warning active areas of fire may remain within containment lines, with fire personnel remaining in the area to treat hazardous trees, monitor hot spots and consolidate containment lines.
It stated there is currently no community threat, but locals should continue to stay informed and aware of conditions.
The Federal and State Governments have activated Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements for residents in the Hindmarsh and Horsham Shires.
The Personal Hardship Assistance Payments are available for eligible community members impacted by the fires who were directed to evacuate their home, or their home was damaged in the fires and they can no longer live in it.
Assistance under the program includes a one-off payment of $680 per adult and $340 per child up to a maximum of $2,380 per eligible family, to help cover the costs of essentials like accommodation, clothing, food and medication.
Meanwhile, Emergency Management Minister, Perin Davey, has called on the Federal and Victorian Governments to fast-track assessment to expand Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) for businesses and primary producers.
“Western Victoria has endured immense challenges, with continued uncertainty and financial hardship," she said.
“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," Dr Webster said.
"While some other disaster-impacted 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.”