“Last year, we saw collection areas struggling to meet demand, and the number of available areas continues to decrease year-on-year.”
From March 1 up until June 30, Victorians can collect free firewood for personal use from designated state forest collection areas.
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) opens the domestic firewood collection areas across the state during two periods each year, the current period, as well as during springtime, from September 1 to November 30.
Ms Cleeland has raised concerns regarding supply shortages and has called on the Victorian Government to ensure that demand is being met throughout the season.
“Many Victorians rely on wood heating to stay warm over winter, and it’s increasingly difficult to get by without it,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Firewood has become an essential resource for regional communities, and the government needs to ensure a reliable, affordable supply.
“Victorians deserve a government that priorities practical solutions to improving living conditions.”
A Victorian Government spokesperson said the free firewood collection points were put in place to aid Victorians during financial hardship, with energy support and concessions available for people on low incomes who purchase the firewood or need help with their energy costs.
“We know the cost-of-living is impacting Victorian families, and for some of these families, firewood collection is an important part of heating their homes,” the spokesperson said.
“That’s why firewood is free to collect from nominated locations during collection periods, these locations are based on supply availability and seasonal conditions.
“In the Hume region, more than 100 firewood collection sites are open this autumn.”
The closest collection area to Seymour is 30 minutes away in the Tallarook State Forest.
To find a firewood collection area near you, head to www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood/find-a-firewood-collection-area
