Community Support
The trauma associated with the 2009 bushfires remains of concern within our community. In recognising the emotional and practical difficulties may surface at anytime, it is vitally important support is available to assist people who may be having difficult with day to day coping.
The Bushfire Communities Support Program, which commenced in March, provides a continuation of individual and community supports including:
- Bushfire Community Support Helpline 1800 050 400
- Bushfire Community Support Workers
- Drop-In Information and Advice Centres
As part of this arrangement we have recently appointed a Bushfire Communities Support Program Officer.
This role will provide ongoing support to individuals and communities to:
- Ensure people have access to appropriate professional services
- Assist people's capacity to look after their own and other's health and wellbeing
- Strengthen informal community support systems
For more information contact Bushfire Communities Support Program Officer Rob Read on 9294 6835.
Fourth Year Responses
Dr Rob Gordon has continued to identify some of the ongoing issues that may be arising for families in bushfire affected communities. It's important to remember the impact of disaster experience is not short term. For many it's not possible to simply 'move on' and 'get on with it'. The impact of surviving the fires and rebuilding stresses remain, we are committed to ensuring anyone affected by the bushfires is provided with appropriate services.
You can use the links on this page to find out more about the Bushfire Communities Support Program and Dr Rob Gordon's reflections.
Health and Wellbeing Voucher Scheme Extension
The Health and Wellbeing Voucher Scheme that is available to bushfire affected individuals to obtain complimentary and allied health services has been extended. The Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund has advised that additional multiple rounds of 4 vouchers per round can be obtained by completing an application form which can be downloaded from the DHS website at www.dhs.vic.gov.au or by contacting the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund on 1800 180 213.