The Victorian Government has announced a new travel exemption for Victorian residents who need to visit their properties to prepare for the bushfire season.
Under the exemption, an owner of a property – or a nominated representative – will be permitted travel from their primary residence to a second property during the current COVID-19 restrictions to undertake fire preparedness work.
Property owners must apply for the exemption with the council in which their property is located. In the case of properties in Nillumbik, owners must apply with Nillumbik Shire Council. Owners of properties outside Nillumbik need to contact their relevant council.
Applications are now open with travel valid to be undertaken from Monday 11 October until further advice from the Victorian Government.
Property owners are only eligible for the exemption if their property is within the Bushfire Management Overlay and work is required to be undertaken to prepare for the bushfire season.
This work can include reducing the bushfire fuel loads on the property by cutting grass, removing vegetation (as permitted), slashing, clearing gutters and removing items from around dwellings and out-buildings.
Owners are permitted to remain at their property for a maximum of 72 hours, but this can be extended by 24 hours at the discretion of Council if the owner needs to travel a long distance to reach their property. If further work is required, property owners can apply for an additional permit.
The permit is valid for the owner of the property and their immediate household members. If the owner is unable to travel, they can nominate a representative to undertake the work on their behalf. Owners can also employ a local contractor to do the work for them.
Applications can be made using our
