We know the recent bushfires across Victoria have affected some of our members, their families and communities. If you’ve been impacted, please know that Fruit Growers Victoria is here to help. If you need support, we’ll do our best to assist wherever we can and help point you in the right direction.
Below are some resources that may be helpful during response and recovery:
Bushfire recovery and emergency support
- For recovery support for those affected by the January 2026 Victorian bushfires, visit: https://www.vic.gov.au/january-2026-victorian-bushfires
- Emergency relief payments are now available for eligible people impacted by the bushfires. If you have immediate relief needs, please check eligibility at: https://www.emergency.vic.gov.au/relief/#january_2026_fires
- For the latest information, warnings and updates, we strongly encourage you to regularly check the VicEmergency website and app.
Orchards and bushfires
Download the - Bushfires in orchards: a guide to preparedness, response and recovery – The guide was published as part of the HIA project Hort Innovation | Developing management strategies to enhance the recovery of horticulture from bushfires (AS19002)
On-farm and livestock support
- Emergency fodder is available for farmers in fire-affected areas. To request fodder, please contact the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) on 1300 882 833 or visit vff.org.au.
- For urgent animal welfare needs, contact the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
- Farmers can report loss and damage via the Agriculture Victoria Farm Management – Emergency Management Bushfires online reporting form.
Financial and wellbeing support
- The Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) is available to bushfire-affected primary producers, offering free and confidential wellbeing, financial and business support. Call 1300 771 741.
Water taken for firefighting
During a bushfire, Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) and the CFA may need to take water from private property for firefighting using tankers or aircraft.
If essential water is taken, you can request that it be replaced. Essential water includes water needed for:
- health of residents and pets
- health and productivity of stock
- agricultural and horticultural crops, permanent plantings and intensive industries
More information is available at: https://go.vic.gov.au/3LFFtBJ
