Our hearts go out to those affected, and those who will continue to face losses over the coming days and weeks.
It can be easy to feel helpless.
However, there are a number of ways you can give to those dealing with different aspects of this crisis.
Support our firefighters
The Victoria’s Country Fire Authority and the NSW Rural Fire Service invite cash donations supporting their firefighting efforts.
See more information on how you can support the CFA here (including specific areas and brigades).
And check out more information on supporting the RFS here, including supporting local brigades.
Support the Australian Red Cross
The Australian Red Cross’ disaster appeal launched in partnership with the ABC has already raised more than $2 million to support affected communities, much of that during its coverage of the Sydney fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
The Red Cross has urged people to donate money, if possible, rather than goods.
You can donate to the appeal here.
Support St Vincent de Paul
The Vinnies bushfire appeal is raising money to provide everything from food for families who have been affected, to managing unexpected household expenses that come up, purchasing new clothing and setting up damaged or destroyed homes with bedding, furniture and appliances.
You can donate here.
Support Foodbank
Foodbank aims to fight hunger in Australia, and has launched an appeal to provide food and water to affected communities and firefighters. It’s already received and donated much-needed food items and is currently fundraising to provide thousands of food relief hampers. Donate here.
Support the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund
Established in 1978, the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund is volunteer run and aims to support those affected by natural disasters in the Gippsland communities.
You can donate at any NAB branch across Australia, or here.
Help the animals
WIRES. The NSW Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) has an emergency fund to help rescue wildlife. Donate here.
Support female led businesses donating proceeds
Finally, we’ve noticed a number of female-led businesses coming up with great ways to support some of the above fundraising efforts, including the below:
Incredibly, Comedian Celeste Barber has raised more than $20 million through her social media efforts, getting a number of global celebrities on board. You can keep up to date with her efforts and donate yourself here.
Scrunchiko has promised profits from their Activ range of scrunchies sold this weekend will go to the NSW RFS.
Collective Hub founder Lisa Messenger has been working with FoodBank Australia on a bushfire appeal. See her instagram.
Sarah Davidson (Holloway) who runs the spoonful_of_sarah Instagram account has also been working to raise money for the Red Cross and has pledged proceeds from her ‘Seize the Yay’ flipbooks with go to supporting those affected.
(Please check with any businesses listed above directly to confirm that their offer is still running)