Maribyrnong will be one of many communities across Victoria left devastated by floods last spring to have better access to reliable tradies under a partnership between Master Builders Victoria (MBV) and the state government.
The $2 million Connecting Communities to Builders program will see homeowners granted streamlined links to local plumbers, electricians and builders in a bid to speed up recovery efforts.
It comes almost a year after rising flood waters swamped homes and businesses from Melbourne to the banks of the Murray River.
Under the initiative, the state government has only enlisted accredited tradespeople registered with Master Builders Victoria and other associations.
Master Builders Victoria will use its funding allocation to help residents access registered tradespeople in a more timely manner.
People and Member Services Executive Director Giovanni Abelardo says the funding would ensure much-needed recovery work would be carried out efficiently.
“We know the impact the floods had on thousands of people, many who were forced out of their homes or have had to contend with property damage and poor services ever since,” Mr Abelardo said.
“This program is an important way for these communities to tap into the services on offer from the reliable and registered Master Builders Victoria members.”
The damage from spring floods was widespread after river systems broke their banks and floodwaters inundated communities and townships.
In all, 63 of the state’s 79 local government areas, were impacted.
Funding has also been provided to the five most impacted councils including Maribyrnong, Campaspe, Greater Shepparton and Mitchell shire councils, and Mount Alexander councils.
MBV said it will help provide council planning departments with extra capacity to deal with the increase in planning and building enquiries and permit applications.
The Connecting Communities to Builders program will run until June 30, 2025 via the Department of Transport and Planning.
Any homeowner impacted by the floods is eligible and can register and submit a request and will then be emailed a list of approved registered builders and tradespeople in their area willing and able to take on work.
The applicant will then deal directly with the builder or tradesperson of their choosing.
