Planning for recovery is an important part of minimising the impact of fire and returning to business quickly.
Farm fire recovery plans should consider:
- The welfare of people
- Weed management, erosion control, environmental issues
- Water quality & stock access to water
- Stock management: e.g. a containment area where stock can be fed after a fire
- Insurance needs (personal and business)
- Possible changes to fencing, sheds and property layout and enterprises.
Where to get help
Local councils coordinate initial measures to assist communities. They are often the first point of contact after a fire.
Other support:
- Welfare needs of people - Department of Human Services (DHS)
- Technical agricultural advice - Department of Primary Industries (DPI)
- Rehabilitating the environment - Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE).
Grants and compensation
- Rehabilitation of fire control lines constructed by fire agencies during fires
State government assistance is available to private landholders; this might involve taking measures to address soil erosion and water quality (e.g. pushing back top soil). It doesn't include replanting of trees, re-establishment of pasture, or any other agricultural crop.
See Fencing and Control Line Rehabilitation on the DSE website.
Replacement of Essential water supplies taken for firefighting
CFA and DSE crews have a legislated right to take water supplies (including drinking water) for fire suppression purposes. A scheme is in place to replenish private water supplies used by emergency services.
If water is taken from domestic and stock or irrigation dams, water needed for essential use will be replaced within 48 hours of the need being reported
Your local Municipal Emergency Coordination Centre (MECC) and water corporation arranges the water replacement.
