The Andrews Labor Government is helping more bushfire-prone communities build their resilience through community-based bushfire risk reduction programs.

Minister for Environment and Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio today announced an investment of $1.83 million across 10 local councils as part of the Safer Together Strengthening Local Government Partnerships program.

Safer Together has a community-centered approach that will see local agencies work with communities to combine local knowledge with the latest science and technology and reduce bushfire risk on public and private land.

These projects will be delivered over the next three years to support local councils develop and extend bushfire risk reduction programs with local communities.

This funding will allow Southern Grampians Shire Council to run their Moments That Matter program, empowering community members to prepared for their own emergency fire preparation and planning in Penshurst and Dunkeld, as well as educate the community about the Bushfire Places of Last Resort.

Greater Bendigo City Council will run targeted engagement around bushfire risk and preparedness with local refugee communities around Heathcote.

Northern Grampians Shire will receive funding to develop a shire specific bushfire emergency app, Wangaratta Rural City Council to develop localised emergency management plans.

Other councils receiving funding under the program include Greater Bendigo City Council, Wellington Shire Council, Mitchell Shire Council, Buloke Shire Council, Nillumbik Shire Council, Golden Plains Shire Council and Towong Shire Council.

For a full list of funded projects, visit safertogether.vic.gov.au/community-engagement

Quotes attributable to Minister for Environment and Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio

“We are living with a changing climate and with an increased bushfire risk – it’s critical we work together keep our rural communities safe and reduce that risk.”

“These grants provide an opportunity for local communities to be better prepared and develop specific programs that are tailored to local needs.”