The Victorian Emergency Relief and Recovery Foundation (VERRF) is a charitable trust, supported by the State Government of Victoria.
We give donations independently of government.
All funds raised will support relief and recovery programs not otherwise fully met through government assistance. Funds will not go towards other government initiatives or to relief and recovery programs traditionally funded by a local, state or federal government.
VERRF forms part of the government’s sector-wide response to disasters of state significance. We work alongside Victoria’s emergency response and recovery organisations and the not-for-profit sector to support individuals and communities affected by these disasters.
About VERRF
During events of state significance, VERRF is stood up by the Victorian Government to administer an appeal. When stood up, the VERRF will establish criteria that determines who can apply for financial support.
People can donate money to active appeals to help those affected. If you are affected by the event, information will be available on the criteria for financial support and how to apply. Financial support will be determined by the level of donations received.
VERRF only operates when there are open appeals. When there is no active appeal, VERRF does not collect donations and it does not take applications for support.
We only accept financial donations
VERRF does not accept non-monetary donations such as food, household items and livestock feed.
If you would like to donate goods or volunteer your time you are encouraged to reach out to other charities, for example GIVIT.
How VERRF uses your donations
100% of money donated goes towards supporting the relief and recovery of people and communities affected by an event.
The VERRF Board generously volunteers their time and are not paid for their work.
No donated money will be used for administrative costs. The Department of Justice and Community Safety provides administrative support to VERRF and our Board.
Our Board
Victorian Emergency Relief and Recovery Foundation Board members
The VERRF Board generously provides their time and extensive experience to assess where and how donated funds are distributed.
Why have I not heard of VERRF before?
The 2026 Victorian Bushfire Appeal is the first time VERRF has been activated to administer funds received from the public.
VERRF was registered and received charitable DGR1 status in December 2023. The purpose of the organisation is to administer state led appeals when activated by the Minister for Emergency Services.
The January 2026 Victorian bushfires are the first significant event since VERRF was established.
Updated