The state government has pledged financial support to the Porepunkah community and alpine region, following the devastating events of 26 August and the ongoing manhunt.
Treasurer Jaclyn Symes has announced that help will be delivered to local businesses and the community, up to $2.5 million will be delivered to support the visitor economy in Porepunkah, Bright and surrounding region including:
• $5000 grants for eligible businesses that have experienced significant disruptions and revenue losses following the incident,
• Financial support for the Alpine Shire Council and the local business chamber to support community activities and events,
• Tourism marketing and promotional activities to boost visitor numbers to the Alpine and High Country region, and
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• Funding for the Ride High Country Marketing Phase 2 project – to support longer term tourism in the region, increase overnight visitation, and drive economic growth.
Businesses are able to register their interest for these grants by heading here: https://business.vic.gov.au/news-and-updates/2025/business-support-for-porepunkah-and-alpine-shire/
Ms Symes said what occurred was shocking and utterly heartbreaking and we’ll continue to stand with the Porepunkah community and provide them every support they need.
“While our brave emergency services are still responding to this unthinkable crime, we know that businesses need support," she said.
"This package will help the local community right now and into the future.”
The Nationals' Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, has expressed relief at the announcement of financial support for local businesses and the wider Alpine community.
Mr McCurdy said the support package would provide some much-needed relief for small businesses that have endured weeks of disruption and uncertainty.
“I am relieved to see these measures now in place and I strongly urge businesses to register their interest today or tomorrow to make sure support reaches those who need it most,” he said.
Mr McCurdy said the past weeks have been incredibly difficult for the people of Porepunkah and surrounding towns.
“This support is a step forward, but the priority now is making sure businesses act quickly to access it so the region can begin its recovery with confidence," he said.
This comes after travel warnings eased for the region following the recent large-scale police operation.
Mr McCurdy encouraged visitors to return as soon as possible and show their support.
“It is fantastic that travel warnings are being lifted and that visitors can once again return to Porepunkah and Bright,” he said.
“These towns rely heavily on tourism, and while we know people will be delighted to come back and enjoy what this beautiful part of Victoria has to offer, we must also acknowledge the very real financial pain our businesses have suffered.
"These businesses have done it tough and will take time to recover, they cannot simply bounce back overnight.
“Our community is resilient, and the spirit of our towns is strong.
"We’re open for business and ready to welcome you back.
“Now more than ever, we need people to come, stay, eat, shop and experience the very best that regional Victoria has to offer.
"Together we can help local businesses get back on their feet."
In addition to these new supports, businesses in Porepunkah can access a number of existing supports, these include:
• Beyond Blue – NewAccess for Small Business Owners: Free, confidential and tailored mental health coaching program, designed to help small business owners.
• Victorian Worker Mental Health Support Line: Free, confidential and 24/7 mental health support for Victorian employees in businesses with 200 workers or less.
• Partners in Wellbeing Helpline: Free wellbeing coaching for all Victorians aged 16 or over.
• Business Victoria Workplace Wellbeing: Resources and information to help sole traders, small businesses and employees manage stress and build positive workplace wellbeing.
• Small Business Debt Helpline: Free, confidential financial advice from experts specialising in finance and debt management.
• Rural Financial Counselling Service: Free independent financial counselling to assist farmers, fishing enterprises, forestry growers and small rural-related businesses.
