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Topical Issues: Bushfires April 2007
Last updated April 13, 2007 -No longer being updated
As of 25 January 2007, the current Victorian bushfires have burnt over one million hectares. As not many houses have been lost the human effects of the crisis don't appear as immediately devastating as the Canberra fires some years ago; however, it is very likely that the effects on tourism and the environment will last for many years. Some potential issues arising from the fire crisis, which philanthropic foundations may wish to become involved with, include:
- native animal rescue and repopulation
- historic cattlemen's huts in the Alpine region
- destruction of tourist icons such as the bridge on the Walhalla Goldfields Railway
Bushfire Recovery Taskforce - 13/04/07
The Victorian State Government's Ministerial Bushfire Recovery Taskforce recently announced a $138 million recovery package. Details of what has been included in this package is available in the Taskforce's final report from the DHS website.
Responding to the Victorian bushfires - 31.1.07
In late January a small group of Philanthropy Australia Members came together in Melbourne in an informal meeting to discuss the ramification of the significant Victorian bushfires, to learn about the Victorian Government's recovery efforts and to discuss a possible role for the philanthropic sector.
Whilst the fires had been widespread, they had primarily occurred in Crown Land so there hadn't been a significant amount of private property lost through them. However, the members who participated in the meeting understood that such natural disasters (past, present and future) have the potential for significant long-term impact on local communities, flora and fauna and as such they were interested to come together to discuss the ramifications of the fires and the potential for creating greater links with government to develop a more coordinated approach to supporting affected communities.
Download Summary Notes - 'Responding to the Victorian Bushfires' (PDF)
Getting Involved
Bendigo Bank's National Bushfire Appeal
Donations can be made at Bendigo Bank branches on online electronic transfer:
BSB 633-000
Account Number 124070871
Further information is available from the Bendigo Bank Community Enterprise Fund on phone 1300 304 541.
The Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund
An appeal has been launched to assist people affected by the fires in Gippsland.
Donation cheques can be posted to PO Box 508, Traralgon 3844.
Further information regarding the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund is available from phone 03 5177 4635 or 03 5176 1362
Help for Wildlife bushfire appeal for injured wildlife
http://www.helpforwildlife.com/
Individuals encountering sick, orphaned or injured wildlife can call them on 0417 380 687
Information and Links
The Victorian Bushfire Information Line can provide information on a range of services. Their number is 1800 240 667
Department of Sustainability and the Environment
Daily updates on significant fires in Victoria
CFA Living in the Bush - Bushfire Survival Plan Workbook
A practical guide covering bushfire preparedness and safety, also available in hard copy from your local CFA
Department of Human Services Bushfire Practical Advice
Advice on health and safety issues, practical assistance and advice for people wishing to help
Department of Human Services Financial and Material Assistance
Victorian State Government grants for those affected by the bushfire crisis
2006/2007 Bushfires Financial Assistance Grants
Links to Commonwealth and Victorian government grants for bushfire recovery
Agricultural Recovery and Stock Relocation
Emergency Management Australia
Bushfire Action Guide
External site (opens in new window)