Joint Media release with the Hon Jeremy Rockliff MP
The Albanese and Rockliff Governments are funding a $10 million Dolphin Sands Clean-Up Program to assist people impacted by the fires in December 2025.
The program is funded under the joint Commonwealth‑State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
It will assist eligible property and small business owners to assess and clean-up fire damaged structures and debris on their land.
The Tasmania Government has been working with contractors pitt&sherry on Stage one of the clean-up program, which involved an environmental contamination and waste inspection on affected properties to identify immediate safety risks.
Phase two of the clean-up program has commenced, with contractors Batchelor Construction Group engaged to start the clean-up of impacted properties.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said this support is helping the residents of Dolphin Sands to get back on their feet and rebuild their lives.
"The clean-up is significant, with 12 properties already completed and 1316 tonnes of waste removed.
"This co-ordinated support is helping property owners by ensuring they can safely access and use their land.
"Our Clean-Up Program will help to keep the community safe from fire-damaged hazards and debris, with 450 tonnes of asbestos containing materials already removed, and eases the financial burden on property owners."
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said it was a priority to support the Dolphin Sands community on their road to recovery.
"I've witnessed firsthand the impact this fire has had on the Dolphin Sands community from both an emotional and practical point of view," Minister McBain said.
"This Clean-Up Program is designed to ease some of the burden and help the community focus on recovery.
"This is about more than just financial support. It's about giving people confidence that they're not facing this alone, and that both the Albanese and Rockliff Governments are standing with them every step of the way.
"We will continue to work closely with the Tasmanian Government to ensure those affected get the support they need to recover."
Federal Member for Lyons Rebecca White said the community resilience in Dolphin Sands had been clear.
"I've spent time with the community and small business owners in Dolphin Sands who have lost so much. The strength of this community is extraordinary, but they shouldn't have to carry this burden alone.
"The Clean-Up Program will provide practical, coordinated support to people can safely return to their properties, clear debris and take the first steps towards rebuilding."
Deputy Premier and Tasmanian Member for Lyons, Guy Barnett, said the Albanese and Rockliff Governments were working together to support the Dolphin Sands community.
"It has been a challenging time for Dolphin Sands residents and I am pleased we have been able to provide a helping hand during the clean up," Deputy Premier Barnett said.
You can find information and updates about the Clean-Up Program, including what works are covered under the program and how to apply at TasRECOVERY.
The website also has other information to help with recovery, including financial assistance and keeping yourself safe when returning to your property after a bushfire.
For current bushfire updates, visit TasALERT or listen to ABC Local Radio.
