Bushfire recovery payments extended to more Victorians

More bushfire-affected communities across Victoria will soon receive Federal Government financial support under an expanded assistance package.

From 2pm local time on Friday, 16 January 2026, the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) will be available for eligible people in the following added locations: Alexandra, Carranballac, Caveat, Creightons Creek, Ghin Ghin, Gobur, Highlands, Kanumbra, Skipton, Streatham, Terip Terip, Upton Hill, Whiteheads Creek, and Yarck.

AGDRP helps those who have suffered the most serious impacts, including major damage to their home, serious injury, or loss of a loved one as a result of the bushfires. It’s a one-off payment of $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per child.

This support is on top of the Disaster Recovery Allowance to support people who’ve lost income as a direct result of this event and the joint federal-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) activated to help households, small businesses, primary producers and councils.

People can check their eligibility for AGDRP on the Services Australia website. The quickest way to claim is online through myGov.

If people need help to claim, they can call the Australian Government Emergency Information Line on 180 22 66.

To change or pause Centrelink debt repayments, affected people can do so online or in the mobile app (through the Money you owe service), or by calling 1800 076 072.

Federal Minister for Government Services, Katy Gallagher, said that the impact of these fires continues to be devastating.

“My thoughts are with the people who have lost their homes and businesses,” Gallagher said.

“The AGDRP provides support to people severely impacted, and I encourage them to check their eligibility on Services Australia’s website.

“Services Australia staff are also on the ground at multiple recovery centres, ready to provide wrap around assistance to those who need.”

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, said that she has been on the ground with communities in Victoria and has seen firsthand how these fires continue to cause significant disruption and damage.

“My thoughts are with the many affected families that are facing an incredibly challenging time,” McBain said.

“The Federal Government stands with Victorians and this payment is about giving people the immediate support they need to start getting back on their feet.”