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Victorian Bushfires – Show your support by staying away + supporting responsibly

After the recent bushfires across Victoria, it’s important to be clear: now is NOT the time to go sightseeing or travelling through fire-affected areas.

Communities impacted by fire are dealing with shock, trauma and enormous uncertainty. Roads, tracks and infrastructure are damaged, there's 1000's of dangerous trees, access is restricted, and recovery will take time. Driving into affected towns, parks or remote areas adds pressure where it’s least needed, and can put you and others at risk.

If you’re feeling the urge to “go and help,” please pause. Don’t force donations or supplies onto communities. Many communities don't have storage space for bulk donations.  The best way to support recovery is respond to specific requests, or ask what’s needed, how people want support delivered, or to donate through channels listed below, which ensure help reaches the right places at the right time.

For walkers, campers, 4WDers and outdoor users considering rural travel:

  • Download the Vic Emergency App on your smartphone (be sure to set up your warning areas)
  • Avoid all fire-affected and recently burned areas (use the Vic Emergency app map view, use the filter to show "Impact Areas")

  • Plan trips carefully to steer well clear of closed parks, tracks and roads (links below).

  • Parts of the Alpine and the Otway National Parks are still burning and will continue to burn for some time. Carefully consider your plans - the tracks will still be there next year for your adventure.

  • Remember weather forecasts aren’t just about temperature - wind strength and wind direction matter.  Use the wind filter on the BOM app, or download the Windy app.

  • If you’re wondering “Do I or don’t I?”  The answer is don’t.

This is only the start of the fire season. The safest and most responsible choice right now may be to stay home - clean your gear, patch that tent, review your maps, and plan future trips for when communities and landscapes are ready to welcome visitors again.

Save your “empty esky”, your "epic hiking" or "amazing 4x4" trips for later. Right now, the bush - and the people who live in it - need space.

Parks and Road Closures:

Supporting Communities

Supporting volunteer CFA and SES Emergency Services

Other Resources: