THE Victorian Farmers’ Federation (VFF) has urged the Australian public to unite and help farmers as they battle the Victorian bushfire crisis – one of the worst in years.
The VFF says support is critical to ensuring farmers and their communities receive the help they need, right now.
The VFF has activated its Disaster Relief Fund to provide immediate, farmer-led support to producers impacted by the catastrophic bushfires.
VFF president Brett Hosking said the program allows the VFF to get funds directly to farmers without the usual red tape.
“Every donation goes to support farmers in need, providing immediate grants to those who have suffered loss and to replace vital infrastructure, fodder and equipment, while also meeting basic household needs,” he said.
“But it’s about more than just rebuilding farms. In times of crisis, immediate financial help eases stress, restores hope, and supports the mental wellbeing of farming families – giving them strength as they continue to battle the blazes, and then to rebuild and recover.”
Mr Hosking said history has shown that in times of devastation, Australians always band together and dig deep.
“These bushfires are devastating for so many families and farming communities across Victoria, and it’s important we learn from lessons in the past by ensuring support is immediately directed to those most affected. And that’s what our Disaster Fund does.”
With every dollar donated going directly to farmers in need, the past two decades has seen millions of dollars’ worth of support delivered to Victorian farmers in the face of natural disasters and major crises.
Donations be made at www.vff.org.au/donations or by cheque made out to ‘VFF Disaster Relief Fund’ to the Victorian Farmers Federation, 24 Collins Street, Melbourne. Farmers impacted by the bushfires can access the funds by contacting the VFF at vff@vff.org.au