The bushfire crisis gripping Victoria continues to escalate, with authorities warning the state is "not through the worst of this" despite some easing in conditions over the weekend. The scale of destruction is growing, with emergency services confirming approximately 300 structures have been lost across multiple fire fronts.
Widespread Destruction and Ongoing Threats
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan provided a sobering update at a press conference on Sunday, revealing there are now 32 active fires burning across the state. This includes 15 emergency warnings and 17 Watch and Act alerts as firefighters battle numerous major fire fronts.
The confirmed damage is severe and widespread:
- At Mount Mercer, one house and 12 sheds have been destroyed.
- In Natimuk, fires have claimed 30 homes and 40 sheds.
- The Ravenswood and Harcourt area has lost 47 homes and three businesses.
- The Longwood fire alone has destroyed approximately 150 structures.
Premier Allan stressed that damage assessments are ongoing, and the number of affected properties is expected to rise as crews can safely access firegrounds. She urged all residents to heed official advice. "If you are told to leave, do so," she said. "Given the scale of the fires that are active today, we need Victorians to continue listening to that advice."
Federal and State Government Mobilise $19.5 Million Support Package
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier Allan announced $19.5 million in immediate support for affected communities. Albanese revealed he and the Premier had been in "almost hourly contact" as the crisis unfolded.
The support package includes:
- Personal hardship payments.
- Emergency accommodation assistance.
- Support for livestock and farmers, including humane treatment of stranded animals.
- A disaster recovery payment of $1000 per adult for those injured, who have lost homes, or suffered significant property damage.
Federal funding will also cover debris removal, restoration of essential public assets, and continued support for emergency services. The Australian Defence Force is providing assistance with accommodation and catering and is on standby for further deployment.
"We've got your back, not just through this crisis but through what comes next as well," Prime Minister Albanese said, praising the efforts of interstate crews and preparedness work.
Firefight Continues as Conditions Remain Dangerous
While some progress has been made, with the Harcourt fire now around 80% contained, serious concerns remain for other blazes, including at Longwood and in East Gippsland. In the Otways, fires ignited by dry lightning have prompted a massive response.
Premier Allan confirmed huge resources are deployed, including more than 70 aircraft and thousands of personnel on the ground. "We will see fires continue for a while across the state," she warned, reiterating that the threat is far from over.
Authorities have pleaded with residents to obey access restrictions, noting that unsafe areas remain highly dangerous. Teams are working to reopen roads where possible, but people should not enter fire-affected zones until they are declared safe.
Minister for Regional Development Kristy McBain echoed the warnings, stating the emergency was ongoing and urging people to stay tuned to official channels. "The three levels of government will come together to assist," she affirmed.
As Victoria battles its bushfire emergency, support was also extended to North Queensland, which is facing a category one tropical cyclone and life-threatening flash flooding. Disaster recovery payments have been activated for 11 local government areas in the region.
The coming weeks will be critical for both states as large fires continue to burn in Victoria and dangerous weather unfolds in Queensland.
