Water was taken from my property for firefighting – how can I get it replaced?
The Essential Water Replacement After Bushfire scheme helps to relieve hardship in the community by replenishing essential private water supplies that have been used by fire services during bushfire emergencies.
The Victorian Government has this policy regarding replacing essential water used during bushfire fighting operations.
CFA and Forest Fire Management firefighters have the legislative powers to take water from any waterway or water source for firefighting purposes.
The water owner can request replacement of essential water under this scheme.
The water replacement scheme recognises that, while farmers understand the urgency of firefighting, their basic water interests have to be protected too.
If taken for firefighting purposes, a reasonable and sufficient volume of essential water will be provided to sustain the:
- health of affected residences and pets
- health and productivity of stock.
To lodge a request for essential water replacement, download and complete the Essential Water Replacement form, then email it to emergency.recovery@deeca.vic.gov.au.
Your local council, DEECA or CFA Office can assist you with lodgement if required.
Essential Water Replacement requests must be submitted within 3 months of the essential water being taken for bushfire fighting operations.