POWER lines in bushfire areas will be progressively replaced, with $200 million allocated in the state budget.
Ivan Peterson from Whittlesea’s Bushfire Recovery Committee said this would help reduce risk.
The state has set aside $33 million to boost the capacity to fight bushfires and deliver more security for people.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Bushfire Response, Peter Ryan, said the funding builds on the Coalition’s promise to implement all 67 recommendations of the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission.
“As part of the budget, $20.6 million has been allocated to implement the second phase of the Coalition’s Bushfire Buy-back Scheme,” he said.
It involves buying property from landowners affected by the 2009 bushfires who wish to relocate from a high-risk area. They have until May 31 to submit applications.
Mr Peterson said the scheme was terrific, but the government must ensure it was implemented quickly and equitably. “That’s been a very emotional issue for many people.”
The budget also includes $2 million for Community Fire Refuges in areas with no Neighbourhood Safer Places location.
A program which identifies vulnerable people and gives them access to the latest information was also allocated $10.4 million over four years.
Mr Peterson said “it’s a start, but there are many vulnerable people and where do they go on code red days? I’d like to see that beefed up”.
