Coalition Funds Next Stage of Seymour Flood Plan

The Victorian Coalition Government is providing $833,000 to deliver the next stage of Seymour’s flood mitigation project.

Minister for Water Peter Walsh visited Seymour today to make the announcement.

“The Victorian Coalition understands the devastating impact that floods can have on communities and businesses,” Mr Walsh said.

“That is why the Napthine Coalition Government is providing $833,000 for the next stage of Seymour’s flood mitigation plan, while Mitchell Shire will contribute $417,000.

“This $1.25 million project will include the purchase of land for a levee and associated preparation works, including clearing the construction site and obtaining approvals such as planning and cultural heritage management.”

Nationals Candidate for Euroa Stephanie Ryan said the levee would run between the railway line, Whiteheads Creek and the Goulburn River to reduce the impact of flooding on some 288 properties.

“Now that the land is being purchased and the preparation is underway, the next stage will be construction of the levee. So this is very exciting for the Seymour community,” Ms Ryan said.

“This latest funding is in addition to $565,500 the Coalition Government has already provided for the first two stages of Seymour’s flood mitigation project, including detailed designs for flood mitigation works and identifying the land needed to build the levee.”

Liberal Candidate for Euroa Tony Schneider said the Victorian Coalition Government was committed to building stronger regional communities by ensuring they are more resilient and better prepared for flooding events.

“The Coalition is demonstrating this commitment by investing in mitigation works across the state, with $5.1 million allocated to flood mitigation projects in the 2014/15 Budget,” Mr Schneider said.

The $9.3 million Seymour flood mitigation project is being jointly funded by the Victorian Coalition Government, the Commonwealth Government and Mitchell Shire, through the National Disaster Resilience Grants Scheme.