We appeared before the 2026 Summer Bushfires Inquiry to present the perspective of farmers.
Our focus was on practical issues affecting preparedness, response and recovery including fuel management, local firefighting capacity, water access and the growing complexity of infrastructure across rural landscapes.
We also highlighted the significant impact on agriculture and animal welfare, including livestock losses and the ongoing challenges farmers face in managing recovery.
The message was clear reducing risk on the ground and strengthening local capability must remain central to Victoria’s bushfire approach.
Above all, the impact to locals on the ground and enormous animal welfare challenges in the days and months after must not be forgotten and support is needed as many continue to pick up the pieces.