Our Bushfire Outreach Support team offers counselling, support and case management to individuals, couples and families affected by the 2009 Victorian bushfires.

Download the service brochure (PDF - 174.20 kB)

What we do

Our team of professional counsellors and support workers can assist with issues such as:

• crisis and trauma
• anxiety and stress
• disturbed sleep
• mood swings
• anger
• grief and loss
• depressing or worrying thoughts
• family and relationship difficulties
• alcohol or drug overuse
• support with parenting issues

The team also offers referrals and linkages to other agencies.

Services are confidential and free of charge. There is no waiting time and we can come to you.

If you are worried about yourself, or someone you care about, call (03) 9871 1800.

Latest news from the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund (VBAF)

Further housing assistance available
Further housing assistance available for survivors of the 2009 bushfires to finalise the rebuilding of their homes and obtain a certificate of occupancy so that applicants can move into them.
The new Further Housing Assistance Gift provides eligible households with up to $20,000 which can be used to purchase materials, connect services, or pay remaining building bills.

Counselling program extended
The Psychological Support Packages program to assist those still enduring psychological trauma following the 2009 Victorian Bushfires has been extended by the VBAF.
Additional details available at http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/bushfireappeal or call 1800 180 213.

Use the links on this page to find out more about upcoming events and groups being run in the community. 

Useful resources

• Coping with stress and depression, Dr Rob Gordon
• Responses in the third year after the disaster, Dr Rob Gordon
• VBBRA Useful contacts for people affected by the 2009 Victorian Bushfires
• Bushfire support for young children
• Bushfire support for teenagers and young adults