January 2026 Victorian bushfires

Available support

A range of support is available for individuals and communities affected by the January 2026 Victorian bushfires.

Accommodation

Emergency accommodation

Short-term emergency accommodation can help for anyone who can’t go home because of the bushfires. This ensures everyone has a safe place to stay.

You may be eligible if you have no other place to go.

Before seeking this support, people are encouraged to consider options such as:

• contacting family or friends for support
• speaking to their insurance provider about what their policy will cover.

If you don’t have insurance or a place to stay, call the Emergency Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760.

Temporary accommodation

Temporary accommodation supports uninsured and under-insured households.

You can apply for temporary accommodation if you are unable to live in your home due to the bushfires.

You may be eligible for temporary accommodation if you:

• cannot return home because it is damaged or destroyed; and
• do not have building or contents insurance or are under-insured; and
• have no alternative accommodation options.

Temporary accommodation options may include:

• a caravan or modular unit placed on your property or at another agreed location
• a rent relief payment to help you pay for rental accommodation.

Onsite temporary accommodation options may be available for up to 3 years.

Onsite temporary accommodation options are not available for rental properties. If you were living in a rental property, you may be eligible to access other temporary accommodation options, including the rent relief payment.

You can get help from a dedicated recovery support worker. They will work with you to understand your needs and link you with the right supports.

To apply for accommodation support, contact the Emergency Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760 (press 9 for an interpreter or call Translating and Interpreter Services on 131 450).

General support

The government, emergency services, councils, and community groups are still working together to assess recovery needs and provide support to affected communities.

Ongoing services can also help. You can view our list of contacts below.

Printable flyer

You can download and print our flyer about available support, below:

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