Travel approval

Melbourne residents who own properties in Horsham Rural City can apply for a letter of approval to travel to clean up before the fire season.

Horsham council chief executive Sunil Bhalla welcomed the State Government’s clarification of guidelines around Melbourne residents visiting regional Victoria while COVID-19 restrictions were in place, after several weeks of confusion and concern for non-resident ratepayers.

“We can understand Melbourne residents’ concerns with the potential condition of their properties, which they have been unable to visit,” he said.

“There will be no charge for the approval letters, however there will be considerable cost and resources to council to put the necessary system in place to take information, validate details against rates notices, and issue notices.

“There have been many challenges for council to support our community, businesses and ratepayers through COVID-19 restrictions and outbreaks, and the issuing of travel permission letters will be the next challenge to deliver.”

Mr Bhalla said the council received more than 100 calls last week from Melbourne residents requesting information about gaining permission to travel following the Premier’s announcement on October 18.

To streamline the process, non-resident ratepayers can request a letter of approval online, on the council’s website, www.hrcc.vic.gov.au.

“When the request is validated and approved, property owners will receive an email with the letter that they can show at check points, show businesses or local police if requested,” Mr Bhalla said.

“We suggest they also carry their rates notice or have it accessible from their phone.”

Mr Bhalla said property owners who were unable to travel or unable to carry out their own maintenance should arrange for Horsham contractors to maintain their properties.

“If you are unwell you must get tested and stay home – do not attend your secondary property even if you have a letter of approval,” he said.