Housing access and recovery support are emerging as critical priorities following the bushfires that have impacted large parts of Victoria, with residents displaced and regional communities facing significant disruption.
In response, the Allan and Albanese Labor Governments have announced an initial $19.5 million support package for bushfire-affected Victorians, jointly funded under the Commonwealth–State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier Jacinta Allan visited emergency services in Central Victoria on Sunday to outline the first phase of assistance.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the funding was aimed at delivering immediate relief to affected communities.
“The Federal Government is working hand in hand with the Victorian Government to provide immediate support for communities impacted by the devastating bushfires,” he said.
A key component of the package is $1.5 million allocated to coordinate emergency accommodation, supporting people who have lost their homes or are unable to return safely.
The funding will assist residents who have sought temporary shelter in hotels, serviced apartments and other short-term accommodation.
Premier Jacinta Allan said the focus was on supporting people who had acted quickly to protect themselves and their families.
“People heeded the warnings and acted to protect themselves and their loved ones – at great cost. We’re standing with them on what will be a long path of recovery,” Ms Allan said.
Longer-term recovery support will also be expanded through a $5 million Recovery Support Program, providing a single point of contact for affected Victorians.
Case support workers will assist residents with housing, legal and financial matters, as well as practical help accessing payments and grants.
To support mental wellbeing, $1 million has been allocated to disaster recovery mental health services, funding group counselling sessions to help communities navigate the trauma caused by the fires.
A further $2 million will establish a recovery hotline, offering information and guidance on accommodation and recovery services.
The package also includes $10 million for an emergency support program to distribute fodder to farmers affected by losses of livestock, crops and agricultural businesses.
Ms Allan said the funding was designed to address immediate needs while supporting longer-term recovery.
“From emergency accommodation to mental health help or fodder for livestock – we’re ensuring no one is left behind in this recovery effort,” she said.
