Within days of launch, almost 30 real estate industry brands have united behind the Beyond the Bricks campaign as part of an industry-wide response to the devastation caused by the bushfires.
With a focus on a three-phase response that encompasses the pillars of ‘relief, rebuild, restore’, the group has already pledged more than $900,000 with four preferred charities flagged for donations.
The major charities at this point include St Vincent de Paul, The Salvation Army, Australian Red Cross and WWF. Further charities are also being supported outside the website by some members and will be included in the final total raised.
Including the industry bodies of REINSW, REIV, REIA, REISA, REIQ, REIWA, the group also encompasses brands like Barry Plant, Belle, Buxton, Coronis, Elders, First National, Harcourts, Hockingstuart, Hodges, Laing+Simmons, LJ Hooker, Marshall White, McGrath, PIPA, PRD, Professionals, Ray White, Raine & Horne, Remax, Richardson & Wrench, and Stone.
Together they have a focus on a three-phase plan that not only provides assistance during the crisis, but also offers long term support to the communities most affected.
Phase one: Relief
Phase one of the plan will have an emphasis on immediate relief and support for those in need. It includes:
- Donating money at three tiers – corporate, office and local communities
- Where offices choose to, organising any spare yard, spare room, spare bed, spare space that is offered and available for those affected
- Advice on property related matters – tenancies, insurance, finance, and more.
Phase two: Rebuild
The second phase shifts attention to rebuilding, and offers assistance to those affected as they seek to rebuild their homes and lives. It includes:
- Reconnecting services such as electricity and water
- Financial assistance (via charities) and advice
- Collection of home essentials (in conjunction with St Vincent de Paul)
- Insurance
Phase three: Restore
Phase three looks to the long-term future of impacted communities and seeks to assist with ongoing support.
A major component of this phase will be to encourage tourism.
Among the organisations involved in the group is REIQ, with CEO Antonia Mercorella noting the emphasis was on immediate support and long term strategies to rebuild the communities affected.
“We are deeply saddened by the devastating effects these fires have had across the country,” said Ms Mercorella.
“But this is not a short term problem.
“Along with immediate loss of property and livelihoods, communities will face ongoing challenges as they attempt to rebuild.
“Beyond the Bricks is a three-phase plan to provide assistance not only during the crisis but to the communities most affected in the aftermath,” Ms Mercorella said.
There are multiple ways to get involved – you can donate directly or set up your own office fundraiser by visiting www.beyondthebricks.com.au
