The petition, sponsored by state Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland, calls for three years of council rate relief and three years of relief from the ESVF for properties destroyed or severely damaged in the January 2026 bushfires.
Ms Cleeland said 603 signatures represented a significant show of support given the petition was focused specifically on people affected by the fires and the relatively small number of communities impacted.
“Six hundred and three people have taken the time to put their name to this petition because they believe families who have lost so much deserve some financial breathing room while they rebuild,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Nine months on, these communities are still recovering.
“For many families, the rebuilding process is nowhere near finished. They are still dealing with damaged or destroyed homes, sheds, fencing, livestock infrastructure and everything else that comes with trying to put your life back together.
“The last thing people should have to worry about is continuing to pay rates and the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy on properties that have been devastated by fire.
“This is about providing some practical financial relief while people get back on their feet.”
Ms Cleeland said the petition should serve as a reminder to the government that recovery did not simply end when the immediate emergency was over.
“The fires may have been nine months ago, but for the families who lived through them, the recovery is happening every single day,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Rebuilding takes time, and government support needs to recognise that.
“I thank everyone who signed this petition and helped make sure the voices of bushfire-affected families continue to be heard in parliament.
“I will keep pushing for practical measures that make a real difference to people as they rebuild their homes, their properties and their lives.”
