Monbulk electorate
Daniela DE MARTINO (Monbulk) (14:45): (945) My constituency question is to the Minister for Emergency Services in the other place. The Dandenong Ranges is an area of extraordinary natural beauty, but it is also highly vulnerable to the threat of bushfires. The Yarra Ranges was also identified in a report released by Emergency Leaders for Climate Action and the Climate Council as the second highest hit local government area in Australia for declared disasters since 2006. As we approach the fire season, residents in my community are increasingly anxious about the risks posed by dry conditions and the need for robust preparedness measures. Minister, what actions are being taken to prepare the Dandenong Ranges for the upcoming fire season? And if I could, with your indulgence Speaker, just take a moment to thank all of our volunteer emergency services across the hills, namely our SES and CFA volunteers – I wish them all a very safe and happy Christmas and new year and an uneventful summer season.