Arabic version: انقطاع الكهرباء في ميلدورا يمتد إلى الجمعة ويثير مخاوف بشأن الرعاية
According to ABC News, more than 2,700 homes and businesses in Mildura have been without power since a ute crashed into a critical power pole at Birdwoodton about 6.30am on Monday. Powercor said just before 7pm on Tuesday that restoration for the majority of the network had been extended from Wednesday afternoon to midday Friday.
The prolonged outage has raised health and safety concerns for elderly residents, people with disability, those reliant on medical equipment and victim-survivors of domestic violence. Twenty-four supported accommodation homes operated by Sunraysia Residential Services are affected. Chief executive Marian Luehman said many residents relied on electricity for equipment and everyday tasks, and that prolonged outages could be distressing and isolating.
Ms Luehman said uncertainty over restoration timeframes could add anxiety for people already facing health or personal challenges. She called for stronger emergency response arrangements, including help accessing generators, alternative accommodation, transport assistance and targeted welfare checks. Powercor spokesperson Jodan Oliver said crews were prioritising regular welfare checks for about 130 residents living with life support apparatuses.
Victoria Police said it had increased patrols in the affected area. Mildura police Acting Inspector Daron Hulls urged residents to remain calm, check on neighbours and manually lock doors and windows where automatic security systems are in place. He said police would not respond to alarms or security systems triggered by power failures; people who feel threatened should call Triple Zero immediately.
Powercor said the outage was unusual because the damaged pole carried both high- and low-voltage circuits. The distributor is checking whether high voltage entered property wiring, switchboards or caused damage, and asked customers to report damage to homes, switchboards or appliances. A relief centre at the Benetook Room of the Alfred Deakin Centre offers device charging and information from Powercor, Mildura Rural City Council and local police.
