- Published:
- Tuesday 14 January 2020
As Victorians begin returning to their homes and land following the recent bushfires, the Andrews Labor Government will make sure people can dispose of their bushfire waste without paying the landfill levy.
Bushfire waste includes the debris from homes, businesses, sheds, stock, fencing and equipment that have been damaged. The levy waiver will also make it easier for people to dispose of dead livestock.
Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) will work with landfill operators and councils in fire-affected areas to apply for the exemption. If residents or business owners have any questions or concerns about bushfire waste clean up and disposal they can contact EPA for further information.
This practical support follows other initial measures being put in place to help the recovery and rebuilding of local communities.
Businesses, families, and individuals whose properties have been destroyed or substantially damaged by bushfires will receive ex-gratia relief for their 2020 land tax assessment. Land tax will be also be waived on eligible properties being used to provide free accommodation for people who need it.
For people who lost motor vehicles due to bushfires, they can receive up to $2,100 in ex-gratia relief from the duty on up to two replacement vehicles.
The Victorian Government is also rolling out dedicated support coordinators for people in fire affected areas in Gippsland and North East Victoria, so they only need to deal with one person when accessing the services and information that is available to them.
Local Councils are receiving $7.3 million to put in place dedicated teams of locals to coordinate and drive bushfire recovery efforts.
The new Bushfire Recovery Victoria (BRV) will work closely with local communities to ensure that rehabilitation projects are both locally-driven and locally-delivered.
Quote attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“This is practical and immediate support for people who are undertaking the heartbreaking task of cleaning up their homes and properties.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Under this measure, the landfill levy is being waived for those who need it most. The EPA will work closely with landfill operators and local councils to roll this out immediately.”
Quote attributable to Bushfire Recovery Victoria Chair Ken Lay
“Recovering and rebuilding after these devastating bushfires will take time – but as I talk to more people on the ground, there is a steely resolve to ensure that the communities affected by the fires get back on their feet.”