Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the ongoing bushfires across Victoria. We recognise this is an extremely difficult time, particularly for those in regional areas, with fires continuing to impact colleagues, communities, businesses and the agricultural sector.

On Saturday 10 January 2026, a State of Disaster was declared and remains in force until 8 February (subject to change). We sincerely hope you, your teams and your families are safe.

As noted by the Victorian Emergency Management Commissioner, the full community and sector impacts will not be known for several weeks, as major fire zones continue to burn and containment remains the priority. While weather conditions may improve at times, this remains an unsettling and uncertain period.

This page brings together key support services and resources for Victorian distilleries and regional businesses impacted by bushfires. Some services may be helpful immediately, while others will assist throughout recovery. If you are looking for a comprehensive map of distilleries in Victoria, please visit the Makers page on Vic Distilled website to see your local distillery.

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Reporting Damage and Loss – Agriculture Victoria

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Agriculture Victoria is requesting all affected primary producers to complete the online Loss and Damage Assessment Form, even if you have already spoken with a representative.

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This ensures your information is formally recorded and helps inform government recovery planning and support.

Farmers and primary producers can report loss and damage here:

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Agriculture Victoria – Emergency Management Bushfires
https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/farm-management/emergency-management/bushfires

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If you do not already have a Property Identification Code (PIC), you can apply online: https://pic.agriculture.vic.gov.au

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Providing this information is critical to ensure your business is considered for recovery assistance.

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Government and Emergency Assistance

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Recovery Support

For official recovery information relating to the January 2026 Victorian Bushfires, visit:
https://www.vic.gov.au/january-2026-victorian-bushfires

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VicEmergency

For the latest warnings, emergency information and recovery updates, regularly check:
https://www.emergency.vic.gov.au or download the VicEmergency App.

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VicEmergency Hotline:‍

1800 226 226
(For urgent animal welfare needs or emergency assistance)

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Services Australia

Support payments and services following natural disasters: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au

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Disaster Assist

National disaster assistance information: https://www.disasterassist.gov.au

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Emergency Fodder Support

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Emergency fodder is being made available for farmers in fire-affected areas.

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To request fodder support:
Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF)
Phone: 1300 882 833
Website: https://www.vff.org.au

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Rural Financial and Wellbeing Support

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Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS)

Free and confidential financial, business and wellbeing support for bushfire-affected primary producers.

Phone: 1300 771 741
Website: https://www.rfcs.org.au

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Rural Aid

Free counselling and practical support for rural communities.
Phone: 1300 175 594
https://www.ruralaid.org.au

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Farmer Assistance Hotline

Information and referrals for wellbeing support.
Phone: 13 23 16

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Lifeline

24/7 crisis support.
Phone: 13 11 14
https://www.lifeline.org.au

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Beyond Blue

Mental health support and resources.
Phone: 1300 22 4636
https://www.beyondblue.org.au

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Community and Industry Support

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Victorian Farmers Federation – Disaster Relief Fund

Immediate financial support for impacted primary producers. ‍

https://www.vff.org.au

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BlazeAid

Volunteer support for fencing and property recovery.
https://blazeaid.com.au

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Banking and Financial Relief

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Many banks offer temporary support including loan deferrals and hardship assistance:

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Commonwealth Bank
https://www.commbank.com.au/support/emergency-assistance.html

ANZ
https://www.anz.com.au/support/services/natural-disaster-support/

NAB
https://www.nab.com.au/about-us/sustainability/natural-disaster-relief-support/get-help

Bendigo Bank
https://www.bendigobank.com.au/support/natural-disasters

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Contact your financial institution directly to discuss your circumstances.

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Appeals and Recovery Funding

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Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal
https://www.frrr.org.au

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GIVIT
https://www.givit.org.au

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A Gentle Reminder

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Recovery looks different for everyone, and there is no set timeline. It is okay to seek support – whether practical, financial, or emotional. Spirits Victoria Association is here to support the Victorian distilling community. If your business has been impacted and you need help navigating available support, please reach out. We can help connect you with services, share information, or simply listen.

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Stay Connected

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Subscribe to the Spirits Victoria Association Newsletter for essential updates, resources and industry information.

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