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Contributing after a disaster - how to help

After a disaster, you might donate your time or money. Make sure your contribution goes where it is needed most.

Volunteer with Disaster Relief Australia

Volunteer to help communities impacted by the January 2026 bushfires through Disaster Relief Australia (DRA).

On this page

After a disaster, Victorians come together to help.

If you’re donating your time or money, make sure your contribution goes where it is needed most.

If you want to volunteer in person, make sure you connect with recognised organisations or established local groups.

They’ll match your skills to genuine needs and ensure you're properly briefed and equipped.

Disaster Relief Australia

Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) is working with councils to identify community interest in hands on activities to support people impacted by the bushfires.

This includes activities like moving green waste and clearing fencelines.

If you are interested in joining their volunteers, fill out an expression of interest now.

Fill out the online form

Before donating make sure you know who you are donating to. Choose trusted, well-known organisations and official channels.

2026 Victorian Bushfire Appeal

You can donate to the 2026 Victorian Bushfire Appeal. Every dollar raised goes directly to people who need help.

Make an appeal donation now

Your contribution will support:

  • people affected by the bushfires, for immediate relief and long-term recovery
  • community projects
  • programs to help protect wildlife and restore the environment.

This 2026 Victorian Bushfire Appeal is administered by independent charity Victorian Emergency Relief and Recovery Foundation.

Victorian Farmers Federation Disaster Relief Fund

The VFF Disaster Relief Fund helps farmers affected by extreme events. It is managed by the Victorian Farmers Federation. Donations go directly to farmers in crisis and all contributions are tax deductible.

Make a donation to the relief fund now

Please don’t drop goods off at recovery hubs and information centres unless they have asked for them.

Unrequested donations create extra work for impacted communities and slow down local charities.

GIVIT

You can donate items, money, or your time to bushfire affected communities through GIVIT.

Donate items and services through GIVIT

You can filter by location and give money, good or services to local regions near you.

Emergency Fodder Support Program

Farmers in fire-affected areas need emergency fodder.

To offer your fodder:

Support local businesses

Shopping with businesses in bushfire impacted areas helps to keep jobs in local communities and communities to recover from emergencies.

You can do this by:

  • buying products from local businesses online
  • booking experiences for a future date
  • keeping an eye on local business websites or social media to see how you can help.

If you are a business owner, find information and support on the Business Victoria website.

January 2026 Victorian bushfires

Relief and recovery support for people and communities affected by the Victorian fires that started on 7 January 2026.

Updated

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