From September 2010 to February 2011, Victoria experienced some of the worst floods in the state’s history. Approximately one-third of Victoria, including 70 local government areas, experienced some form of flooding or storm damage, resulting in enormous cost and disruption to regional, urban and rural communities. As at October 2011, the estimated total cost of these floods is nearly $1.3 billion.

The Victorian floods of January 2011 were the biggest on record for catchments in the west and north-west of the State and some areas recorded three to four times the January average rainfall.

Flooding affected 75 towns, thousands of people and their properties.

Victorian floods financial assistance

The Victorian Government provides emergency grants for people impacted by flooding and severe weather events. These grants are available for individuals, small businesses, primary producers, community organisations and councils.

Victorian Floods Review

In the wake of the floods, the Premier, the Honourable Ted Baillieu, MP, announced a comprehensive review of flood warnings and emergency response efforts to be led by Mr Neil Comrie AO, APM.

Details of the review including the Final Report can be found at www.floodsreview.vic.gov.au.