VICTORIA ABLAZE: ‘We’re Not Through the Worst of This’ – Premier Warns as Bushfire Emergency Spirals Out of Control with 300 Structures Destroyed and 32 Active Fires Raging
- Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan issues stark warning that the state is ‘not through the worst of this’ as bushfire emergency intensifies
- 32 active fires burning across the state, including 15 emergency warnings and 17 Watch and Act warnings, with authorities battling multiple major fire fronts
- Scale of destruction continues to grow, with around 300 structures lost, including homes, sheds, and businesses, with damage assessments ongoing
In a chilling assessment of the bushfire crisis gripping Victoria, Premier Jacinta Allan warned that the state is ‘not through the worst of this’, as authorities battle to contain 32 active fires burning across the state.
The Premier’s stark warning came as the scale of destruction continues to grow, with around 300 structures lost, including homes, sheds, and businesses. The devastating toll includes one house and 12 sheds destroyed at Mount Mercer, 30 homes and 40 sheds claimed by the fires at Natimuk, and 47 homes and three businesses lost in the Ravenswood and Harcourt area.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Allan praised the efforts of emergency personnel, including interstate crews, who have been working tirelessly to combat the fires. ‘We will continue to support you on the journey ahead,’ she said, thanking Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for his support.
Albanese announced $19.5 million in immediate support, including personal hardship payments, emergency accommodation, and livestock assistance. ‘We’ve got your back, not just through this crisis but through what comes next as well,’ he said.
The Federal Government’s funding package will cover debris removal, restoration of essential public assets, and continued support for emergency services, with the Australian Defence Force providing assistance, including accommodation and catering.
As the crisis deepens, Allan urged residents to listen to all recommendations and feedback from emergency services and authorities. ‘If you are told to leave, do so,’ she warned. ‘Given the scale of the fires that are active today, we need Victorians to continue listening to that advice.’
With the threat far from over, Allan confirmed that ‘huge’ resources are being deployed, with more than 70 aircraft and thousands of personnel on the ground. ‘We will see fires continue for a while across the state,’ she said.
Minister for Regional Development Kristy McBain also warned that the emergency was far from over, urging residents to stay informed and praising emergency workers who have left their families to assist affected communities.
As the situation continues to unfold, authorities say the coming weeks will be critical, with large fires still burning across Victoria and dangerous weather continuing to unfold in Queensland.