Recovery Support Available for Fire-Affected Communities

22 January 2026

Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland says communities impacted by the Longwood bushfires are beginning the difficult transition from response to recovery, with a broad range of state and federal government grants and recovery programs now available to provide support.

Ms Cleeland said many people were still coming to terms with what had been lost, while also trying to work out what help was available.

“As people start to take stock and look ahead, there is support in place to help them get through the immediate aftermath and into recovery,” Ms Cleeland said. “I know that navigating grants and assistance can feel overwhelming when people are already dealing with loss and disruption.”

She said government assistance currently included one-off emergency relief payments, payments for households affected by prolonged power outages, and disaster recovery allowances for eligible individuals and families.

Ms Cleeland said further loans and grants were also being rolled out in the coming weeks, with a particular focus on primary producers.

“There are additional recovery loans and grants being developed to support farmers and landholders with the longer-term impacts of these fires,” she said. “That support will be critical as people begin rebuilding fencing, restoring operations and managing the ongoing costs of recovery.”

She said farmers could also access advice and assistance through the Victorian Farmers Federation, including support related to livestock and fodder. Information is available at www.vff.org.au.

Ms Cleeland said she had undertaken significant advocacy to ensure recovery programs reflected the full extent of impact across the region.

“I have worked closely with the Premier’s Office to ensure recovery programs recognise all affected communities,” she said. “That work has focused on ensuring support is delivered equitably and in line with the realities on the ground.”

Ms Cleeland said her office was assisting residents to navigate available support.

“These grants can be complex, and people shouldn’t have to work it out on their own,” she said. “My team is helping community members understand what they’re eligible for and work through the application process.”

She said the most up-to-date recovery information for the region, including a bushfire recovery guide, had been compiled to help people access support in one place. This guide is available at annabellecleeland.com.au/bushfire

Ms Cleeland encouraged anyone needing assistance to contact her office.

“If you’re unsure what support you can access, or you’re having trouble navigating the system, please reach out,” she said. “My office is here to help, and we will continue standing with this community through recovery.”