The Victorian government has defended its disaster recovery funding record, after five flood-hit councils expressed difficulties in accessing state and federal support.
Councils in Campaspe, Buloke, Gannawarra, Loddon and Swan Hill on Wednesday criticised red tape and delays in accessing disaster funds.
"Every single flood affected Victorian council has been given the vital funds they need to clean up and recover from this devastating event," a Victorian government spokeswoman said in a statement.
"Nearly $2 billion in support has been paid out by the state and federal governments."
The spokeswoman agreed cross-government disaster funding arrangements could be hard to navigate.
Under Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, councils are reimbursed by the federal government - via state and territory governments - for the repair and reinstatement of damaged essential public assets.
"That's why we are working with councils to help streamline the process and directly offer advance payments so people can get the help they need as soon as they need it," the spokeswoman said.
The state government has provided more than $46 million in advances across 12 councils for disaster recovery funding activities.
The federal government has launched an independent inquiry into disaster funding arrangements and encourages councils to contribute their feedback directly.
The inquiry is due to report back in 2024.
