Bushfire support ramps up for Victorian farmers

As catastrophic bushfires continue across Victoria, the Victorian Farmers Federation has activated its Disaster Relief Fund to provide immediate, farmer-led assistance to producers impacted by the fires.

With a State of Disaster declared across 18 local government areas and more than 300,000 hectares burnt, farmers are reporting extensive losses including livestock, homes, fencing, equipment and fodder.

The VFF says the scale of damage facing farming families is significant and recovery will take time.

The Disaster Relief Fund is a registered charity and will provide grants to help replace damaged infrastructure, purchase fodder and equipment, and meet essential household needs. Donations are tax deductible and can be made through the VFF website at vff.org.au.

The Federation has also enacted its Emergency Fodder Support Program, working with the Victorian Government and other agencies to coordinate fodder donations and delivery, with affected farmers encouraged to register for assistance.