The 2022 Victorian flood event impacted 81% of local government areas across Victoria, particularly in Northern and Central Victoria.
Major damage occurred to homes, roads, bridges, recreation sites, and community facilities.
Rochester was particularly hard-hit following the unprecedented rain event that started on 6 October 2022. Floodwaters were the highest in Rochester's history, leading to long-term displacement for many residents.
Three years on, some people still can’t go home.
Protracted disputes over insurance claims and building delays, has impacted some people's ability to move back into their home. These long delays caused emotional, mental health and financial strain.
A call for action
Since this natural disaster, many residents’ report their insurance premiums have skyrocketed with some households choosing not to insure or only taking out partial insurance.
Increased frequency and severity of natural disasters like floods, storms and bushfires are driving higher premiums and potentially making insurance unaffordable or unavailable in high-risk areas.
Governments and industry can work together to put downward pressure on premiums and help safeguard communities from future extreme weather events.
Ongoing Government investment in flood mitigation and disaster resilience measures is key to protecting homes and businesses from floods, storms, and bushfires.
The Albanese Labor Government is proactively tackling flood mitigation and building more resilient communities through programs like the Disaster Ready Fund and the National Flood Mitigation Infrastructure Program which provide funding for resilience projects and infrastructure improvements.
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bendigo, Lisa Chesters MP:
"Today (6/10) is the three-year anniversary since the rain event started that led to the significant flooding that devastated parts of the Bendigo Electorate.
“Homes and businesses in Heathcote, Huntly, Axedale, Marong, Campbell’s Creek and Rochester would go on to experience flooding above the floorboards.
"Rochester experienced its worst flood ever, displacing most of its 3,000 residents, with many having to relocate to temporary accommodation.
“Today, some affected by the October 2022 floods are still not able to return home and I cannot begin to imagine their frustration and anxiety that comes with this anniversary."
"Whilst work continues to reduce disaster risk and build long-term resilience in the face of increasing natural disasters, there is still much more to do.
"Federal, State, and Local Governments in collaborative partnerships with communities and industry must step up our collective efforts to improve flood mitigation and reduce escalating insurance premiums."
