Northern Victoria is focus of flood inquiry interim report

The Chair of the Upper House Environment and Planning Committee Ryan Batchelor tabled an interim report with six findings primarily focused on northern Victoria.

The report considers key issues identified and raised by inquiry participants, including:

• Financial recovery
• Temporary accommodation
• Debris and damage
• Community support
• Insurance

‘Thank you to the hundreds of people who made a submission and took part in public hearings at Rochester, Echuca, Mooroopna near Shepparton and Seymour,’ Mr Batchelor said. 

The majority of the inquiry’s 880 public submissions came from people directly affected by flooding. 

‘It could not have been easy to make a contribution whilst personally dealing with those challenges,’ Mr Batchelor said.

“ ‘We are grateful to those who could provide their insights and reflections.’ ”

Ryan Batchelor, Committee Chair

Mr Batchelor said the final report, which is due to be tabled in parliament in mid-2024 will also consider the Maribyrnong River flood.

‘I hope this report demonstrates those who experienced flooding and who understand the challenges of recovery best are at the forefront of our thinking in relation to our final report,’ he said.

‘It will have recommendations for government relating to both regional Victoria and Maribyrnong in three key areas of mitigation - including planning and preparedness - recovery and response.’

Go to the committee inquiry website to read the full interim report.