The Baillieu Government has let down Victorians living in fire-prone areas after a report revealed that fire authorities were struggling to meet prescribed burn targets, Shadow Minister for Emergency Services, Danielle Green said today.
“It is clear the Baillieu Government has failed to achieve its own prescribed burn targets and its responsibility to prepare Victoria against bushfire,” Ms Green said.
“The Baillieu Government is more focused on meeting politically-motivated targets, than protecting communities most at risk.
“Mr Baillieu should be listening to the experts and burning in areas that will save lives, properties and businesses rather than burning in remote areas.
“As a result, communities throughout the Bendigo region are still at risk as the prescribed burning undertaken will not protect their towns.”
Member for Bendigo West, Maree Edwards said local communities at risk included:
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- Castlemaine and district;
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“Politics should have no part in the Government’s plan to prepare Victoria against bushfire – but under Ted Baillieu it is front and centre,” Ms Edwards said
Ms Edwards said the bungled handling of back burning was the latest failing by the Baillieu Government on bushfire safety.
“The Baillieu Government is mismanaging its responsibility to prepare Victorian families and businesses against fire,” she said.
“Firstly Mr Baillieu postponed Fire Action Week until after a quarter of the state was already under threat from fire. Mr Baillieu knocked back a request by fire authorities for a third ‘Elvis’ aircrane, and he also failed to provide funding for much needed CFA fire station upgrades.
“When it comes to preparing Victoria for bushfire, governments can either be popular or they can be effective.
“Back burning huge amounts of grassland is no substitute for targeted burns in areas that will protect properties and save lives.”