In parliament, Mr McCurdy said while Porepunkah businesses were grateful to receive support following what had been a difficult 50 days, many surrounding communities, including Bright, Wandiligong and Ovens, had been left behind.
“Only around 14 per cent of businesses outside Porepunkah have qualified for the $5000 grant,” Mr McCurdy said.
“These are businesses that have also suffered significant economic impacts during this period and deserve the same level of support.”
Mr McCurdy said when government agencies such as Victoria Police advised tourists to stay away from a region for an extended period, for good reason, the Victorian Government had a responsibility to support those communities economically.
“A $5000 grant is a drop in the ocean compared to the reported $100 million spent on the manhunt,” he said.
“I completely support the actions taken to ensure community safety, but we must also ensure local businesses are not left to shoulder the financial burden.”
Mr McCurdy visited Bright and Porepunkah recently with Nationals leader Danny O’Brien to speak to business owners.
“We met so many hardworking locals whose positivity and community spirit are truly inspiring,” he said.
“This part of the Ovens Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Victoria, and local businesses rely heavily on tourism.
“The best way to support them right now is to plan a visit, stay a few nights, and enjoy everything Bright and Porepunkah have to offer.”
Mr McCurdy said he would continue to monitor the number of businesses that qualified for assistance and would raise these concerns in parliament.
“I urge the government to be fair and reasonable, ease the criteria immediately so that more businesses can qualify for this support. Every affected business deserves a fair go,” he said.
