Clean-up and waste

• If your fencing was damaged by emergency crews or borders a national park, you may be able to get help. Call the Department of Energy Environment and Climate Action on 136 186.
• Blaze Aid is working with rural people to help rebuild farm fences to safely contain livestock. Check their locations blazeaid.com.au.

Livestock, farms and tractors

• Primary producer grants from Rural Finance can help cover the cost of clean‑up and getting back to business. Apply at ruralfinance.com.au.
• Get advice on livestock welfare and disposal. Call Agriculture Victoria on 1800 226 226 or email livestock.disposal@agriculture.vic.gov.au.

Waste

• Discounted waste disposal is available at dump and waste facilities in the impacted local council areas. You won’t pay state government fees for rubbish from your property generated by the January bushfires.

  Check with the site about their local gate fees that apply and that the facility that they can take your items. Please also bring ID that shows your address.

Advice for a safe clean-up and rubbish removal

• Watch for hazards as bushfires can leave behind dangerous damage. They can cause buildings to be unstable. Trees and branches may be fallen. Gas bottles and other chemicals may be damaged. Septic tanks or water systems may have or be ready to collapse.
• Asbestos can be dangerous when damaged or when it is being removed. Only licenced professionals should remove asbestos. Homes built before 1990 may have asbestos. Learn more about asbestos and find a licenced expert at asbestos.vic.gov.au.
• Look out for fake trades. Always ask for ID, don't pay upfront and check their qualifications.

Emergency works orders

Councils may issue these orders if a damaged property is unsafe. Contact your council to understand your options.

Protecting Aboriginal cultural heritage

Disasters can uncover or damage Aboriginal cultural heritage sites and artefacts. These must be protected, as once it is lost it is gone forever.

We all have a role to play in protecting and preserving Aboriginal cultural heritage. It is your responsibility to keep Aboriginal cultural heritage on your property protected. Find more information on firstpeoplesrelations.vic.gov.au.