Perin Davey (NSW, National Party, Shadow Minister for Water) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

What a start to 2025 we've had, with flood and fire at the two ends of the east coast. In Victoria, the fire season started before Christmas, when the Grampians National Park started burning. By last weekend, as the fire was contained, 230,000 hectares had been lost. As well as the physical damage, we saw the normal Christmas holiday rush of tourists gone. That has affected businesses right through the region. From the outset, I want to thank all the volunteer firefighters, their support teams and their families.

At the same time, we've had floods in Far North Queensland. The region has been battered by tropical lows. Towns have had metres of rain and then some, just when locals thought the worst had passed. Homes have been lost, shops are without food, power is out and, unfortunately, in this case, lives have been lost.

There have been two disasters in two states. Both states had visits from the Prime Minister, and both had commitments from the federal government that all assistance—whatever is required—would be provided to support the affected communities. But, when it comes to putting the rubber to the road, the two states are worlds apart. It truly is a tale of two different disasters. The Queensland government moved immediately. Assessments were made, requests were submitted and a range of assistance measures were announced for businesses and primary industries, as well as for people. In Victoria, now that the fires are under control, farms and businesses are still waiting to see if assistance will be offered to them. Councils have assistance, but businesses and farms are still waiting for the state government to do the necessary assessments. They must happen, and they must happen soon. The federal government stands ready. We will support the federal government to get it out the door. (Time expired)