Rural Aid Urges Victorian Farmers to Register as Bushfires Threaten the State

Leading rural charity Rural Aid is encouraging farmers in Victoria to register for support as bushfires threaten parts of the state, with some early property losses already reported. Conditions are being closely monitored, and producers are urged to prepare for potential impacts to crops, livestock, fencing, sheds, and other essential infrastructure.

With the situation evolving and conditions potentially changing quickly, Rural Aid is urging all primary producers to ensure they are registered so assistance can be delivered quickly and efficiently if required.
 
The charity is also calling on the broader community to support farmers who may be affected. Donations made through the Rural Aid website help ensure producers can access relief as soon as it is needed, protect their livelihoods, and maintain Australia’s food and fibre supply.
 
Rural Aid Chief Executive Officer John Warlters said the situation is fast-moving and concerning.
 
“The bushfire risk is severe and is already causing damage in some areas,” Mr Warlters said. “Being registered with Rural Aid ensures we can contact farmers quickly and provide the right support at the right time. Registration only takes a few minutes and gives our team the information needed to respond promptly if a farmer is affected.”
 
Rural Aid provides a broad range of free services to registered farmers, including:

  • Financial assistance for immediate or unexpected expenses
  • Professional counselling and wellbeing support for farmers and their families
  • Hay deliveries for livestock if feed becomes scarce
  • Water deliveries for drinking and household needs
  • Volunteer support through the Farm Army program to assist with on-ground response and recovery

Farmers are encouraged to register with Rural Aid at faa.ruralaid.org.au or by calling 1300 327 624 to ensure support can be delivered if and when it is needed.

About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, committed to supporting farmers and rural communities through good times and tough. Since 2015, Rural Aid has been a vital lifeline in times of hardship, delivering practical assistance such as mental health counselling, hay, drinking water, and community connection initiatives. Now celebrating 10 years of service, the organisation continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with rural Australians, helping them overcome hardship, build resilience, and create stronger, more sustainable futures.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au