The Allan Labor Government is making sure schools across Victoria are well-prepared for the upcoming bushfire season by providing grants to clear vegetation growth and reduce the risk of fire.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll today announced 345 campuses across 330 government schools would share in $8.4 million to carry out essential maintenance work as part of the Bushfire Preparedness Vegetation Program (BPVP).
The program was introduced in 2018 to help schools undertake essential vegetation clearance around the school buildings prior to the bushfire season and in line with municipal fire danger periods.
Schools receiving funds are listed on the Bushfire At-Risk Register (BARR). These schools are required to undertake vegetation works on a regular basis to reduce the risk of harm to the school's community and buildings in the event of a bushfire.
The Bushfire Preparedness Vegetation Program also includes a School Support Program, providing two school visits to each participating schools by an accredited Bushfire Planning and Design consultant who develops a Vegetation Management Plan.
Schools can also engage additional bushfire related professional services - such as a Bushfire Attack Level expert - to provide further advice and support in reducing their bushfire risk.
Victoria is one of the most bushfire-prone areas in the world - that's why everyone should have a bushfire plan and the VicEmergency app downloaded on their phone. For more information on bushfire preparedness and to create your fire plan, visit fireplanner.vic.gov.au.
For a list of schools receiving funding under the Bushfire Preparedness Vegetation Program, visit www.vic.gov.au/bushfire-risk-register-barr.
As stated by Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll
"We know how devastating bushfires are - that's why we're continuing to support schools to be as fire-ready as possible."
"We're continuing to invest in the maintenance projects that matter most - to make sure all Victorian schools are in the best possible condition and to protect classrooms and facilities in the event of a bushfire."
As stated by Minister for Emergency Services Vicki Ward
"Bushfire season is just around the corner and now is the time for everyone at school, at work and at home to prepare property - doing this work now and having an action plan could save a life."
