Our thoughts are with the families and communities of all the volunteers involved in fighting the bushfires, especially those that have lost their lives. Volunteers responding to this ongoing Australian fire emergency are working tirelessly to fight fires on the front-line and support the emergency services. Their contribution to our local communities is immeasurable and we must never take them for granted.
As fires continue to burn across the country many people have reached out to us and the volunteering State/Territory peak bodies to ask how they can volunteer to help those affected by these devastating fires.
Thank you for reaching out and for offering to help your fellow Australians during this national disaster. Volunteering is a very good way to help in times of need, but it’s important for you to be mindful – always stop and listen first. This will ensure the right help is given at the right time in the right place.
Here’s how you can help right now and into the future:
- In the thick of a disaster, as we are now, we should check in on family, friends, neighbours and your local community and look after yourself first.
- To help the first responders and those directly affected by the fires you can donate to a national, state or local authorised, recognised disaster support agency. These vary from state to state.
- Refer to trusted sources, including local councils and formally recognised emergency services agencies. Their websites and social media provide essential, up-to-date information on the disaster situation and when, where and what help is needed.
- Consider volunteering for volunteer-involving organisations in your local community that will support the long recovery and rebuilding process. Your help will be needed when the immediate danger has past and affected individuals and communities are ready to ask for and receive assistance. By volunteering locally you strengthen your own and your community’s connectedness, disaster resilience and preparedness.
- Some Volunteering Peak Bodies are taking Spontaneous Emergency Volunteer registrations now. Consider registering your support with your local State/Territory peak body where possible. If you have pre-registered as an emergency volunteer for now please wait; you may be contacted if and when needed.
