Donations Sought For Bushfire Recovery

The Victorian Emergency Relief and Recovery Foundation has launched the January 2026 Victorian Bushfire Appeal, as bushfires continue to impact communities across Victoria.

The appeal is raising funds to support individuals, families and communities affected by the ongoing emergency, with money directed toward immediate relief and longer-term recovery.

Donations can be made online via Westpac’s secure PayWay system. All donations over $2 are tax deductible. People can also donate by phone on 1800 837 733, available Monday to Friday between 9 am and 5 pm.

Funds raised through the appeal will be used for immediate assistance and relief services, community-led recovery projects, and programs supporting environmental and wildlife recovery in fire-affected areas.

Immediate support for individuals will be delivered in partnership with locally based charities operating within impacted communities. Information on how individuals can apply directly to VERRF for additional assistance is expected to be released in the coming days.

Community recovery projects, including those involving shared community spaces and local environments, will be funded through a merit-based application process to be outlined in the coming weeks.

VERRF has confirmed it is only accepting financial donations and is not taking goods such as food, household items or livestock feed. Those wishing to donate goods or volunteer are encouraged to contact other charities, including GIVIT.

VERRF says 100 per cent of donations will go directly to relief and recovery efforts, with no funds used for administrative costs. Administrative support is provided by the Victorian Government, and the VERRF Board operates on a voluntary basis.

Further updates on recovery efforts are available through Emergency Recovery Victoria.

Donation link: https://www.payway.com.au/hpp/enter-payment-details/lciD-yiGKKap1E-3HdppSg/enter-payment-details