This week Victoria has been lashed by severe weather that resulted in devastating storm and bushfire damage across the state and one of our largest ever electricity blackouts.
The VFF is continuing to work closely with the Victorian government to assess losses and damage and target emergency relief to where it’s needed most. We recognise there is widespread power outages from storm damage and transmission failure that is creating havoc in the impacted areas. A priority power restoration system has been established. Farmers without power and those that have urgent needs should provide their National Meter Identification (NMI) number / full name and address to the VFF via email at [email protected] We will provide this information on your behalf to Agriculture Victoria for you to be placed on the list for priority connection. The NMI can be found on your electricity bill. EMERGENCY RELIEF PAYMENTS:Emergency relief payments are now available for eligible community members whose homes have been damaged. The situation will continue to evolve in coming days and we advise you keep updated on the latest information as it becomes available. The VFF encourages you to visit the Vic Emergency website for further information and monitor it regularly.
The impact on our industry and regional communities from natural disasters continues to be a major issue and the VFF is advocating this to the govt with the aim of implementing processes for better local planning and involvement of community in emergency management preparedness.
We will continue to keep you updated and as always, you can contact the VFF if you need by clicking here.