General News
29 July, 2026
Funds flow for fire safety
TIMBOON P-12 College and Simpson Primary School were among the schools named for state government funding for the upcoming fire season.
Minister for Education Ben Carroll announced the funding on Monday, with Timboon and Simpson among the 330 schools to share in the over $8 million investment.
The finding will be used to clear vegetation and provide expert safety advice for schools listed on the Bushfire at Risk Register, which identifies schools most at risk of bushfire and lists safety actions for schools to undertake.
Timboon P-12 College will receive $32,287.25, while Simpson Primary School will receive $24,915.95.
Mr Carroll said, in addition to the vegetation clearing funding, schools will be able to access Bushfire Preparedness Vegetation Program grants to access expert support.
“Regular vegetation works mean safer school communities and buildings in the event of a bushfire,” he said.
“That’s why schools will also get two visits every three years by an accredited bushfire planning and design expert.
“Through the School Support Program, the experts will give the schools a unique Vegetation Management Plan.
“This means schools are kept safe as conditions and their school communities evolve.”
Mr Carroll said schools who need extra advice, such as from a specialist bushfire attack level expert, are fully supported to do so.
“It’s never too early to prepare for bushfire season, so Labor is stepping in to protect school communities well before bushfire season begins,” he said.
“We’re not just protecting school communities this bushfire season, we’re giving them ongoing support for years to come.”
Minister for Emergency Services Vicki Ward said it was important for communities to prepare early and to stay informed during periods of high risk.
“This funding gives peri-urban and regional families peace of mind that their local school is prepared for bushfire season well before it begins,” she said.
Victorians should always use more than one source for emergency warnings, such as the VicEmergency app.