She said residents and farmers had yet to receive appropriate support following the October 2022 floods, and floods in December and January had only worsened the matter.
“Initial grants were completely inadequate at covering the impact of the October 2022 floods, and now our local residents and farmers are having to deal with the same issue all over again this year,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Understandably, our farmers are frustrated, having rebuilt fences only for them to be flattened again less than 16 months later.
“Too many of my constituents have been left with minimal support as they are stuck cleaning up yet another flood.”
Ms Cleeland also addressed insurance challenges that Seymour, Benalla and Heathcote residents were dealing with.
“On top of the grants not being enough and no longer being available, our residents and farmers are finding it impossible to get insurance — leaving them considerably out-of-pocket,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Our regional producers and residents cannot be left to tread water as the persistent threat of floods remains — more financial support is essential to get them back on their feet.”
Ms Cleeland also raised concerns to Agriculture Minister Ros Spence about local farmers and regional residents who had struggled with a lack of funding and support following recent flood events.
“The financial burden of these floods continues to have a profound impact on the mental health of our residents and farmers,” she said.
“I will continue to advocate for our affected community members and ensure they get the support they deserve to rebuild and thrive.”
The government has been contacted for a comment.
