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.

Tank water safety

Your tank water may not be safe to drink after a fire. It could be contaminated from debris, ash, dead animals, aerial fire retardants, and water-bombing.

If the water tastes, looks or smells unusual, do not:

• drink
• use for food preparation
• use for brushing teeth
• give to animals (pets or livestock).

Use bottled water for drinking.

If you disconnected your downpipes before the fire, hose off your roof or wait for heavy rain before you reconnect them.

Read more about bushfires and private drinking water on the Better Heath Channel.

Waste and advice for a safe clean-up and rubbish removal

Rubbish generated bushfires may be taken to your local waste facility. Each waste facility has different rules about what it accepts for disposal. Check with them or your local council before taking your items.

• 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.