Victorian Councils Seek Additional Funding for Bushfire Recovery Efforts
Fifteen councils in Victoria, including Mitchell, Murrindindi, and Strathbogie Shire councils, are set to receive a share of $15 million in funding from federal and state governments. This funding is intended to support the employment of 27 new community recovery officers and the establishment of recovery hubs. However, the councils argue that the funding is insufficient to cover the extensive recovery needs following the January bushfires, which caused significant damage across the region. Murrindindi Shire Council Mayor Damien Gallagher highlighted that the municipal recovery task alone is estimated at $105 million, far exceeding the council's capacity. The financial impact on the community is even greater, with the cost to replace nearly 5000km of fencing alone estimated at $120-140 million. The councils are advocating for more substantial support to address the widespread devastation and to ensure long-term resilience. 
