Colac Otway Fire Event - Recovery

Livestock

Farmers who want to check on their animals can now lodge a request directly with Agriculture Victoria (phone 1800 226 226) and we will work with the local fire incident controller to assess the request and determine the earliest and safest way for them to gain access to their properties.

If fires have affected your property – including dead or injured animals, crop loss or damage, or fodder and water needs – you can report it online. Your information will help us report on impacts and inform recovery supports.

• Online Assessment Form: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/farm-management/emergency-management/bushfires
• Alternatively, farmers impacted by fires with any animal welfare needs can also call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 (Press 0, then 1 to talk to someone). 

Support, services and information for businesses affected by and recovering from Victorian bushfires can vary based on the specific nature and location of the event.

Visit Business Victoria's Recovering from a Bushfire online resource page: Recovering from a bushfire | Business Victoria

State Government Support

The State Government has rolled out recovery support, including Emergency Relief and Disaster Recovery payments, support with emergency accommodation and insurance cover, counselling and social recovery.

For a full list of resources currently available please visit January 2026 Victorian bushfires | vic.gov.au

Commonwealth Bank

You may be able to access a range of tailored support options if you or your business are impacted by a natural disaster or other unforeseen event. Support is available for individuals and business customers. For more information visit: Emergency Assistance - CommBank

Colac Area Health Financial Counselling

Colac Area Health has provided financial counselling to its local community for 35 years and employ highly experienced staff. Financial Counselling in a specialist para legal service. You can call the service on 5232 5100 or visit Financial Counselling - Colac Area Health

Colac Salvos Financial Counselling

The Salvation Army’s free and confidential financial counselling service, Moneycare, is available to support anyone who would like to improve their financial situation or is looking for help with budgeting their money. Whether you are feeling completely overwhelmed by debt, have been affected by a natural disaster or other financial crisis, or would just like some pointers to navigate the rising costs of living — we are here for you. For more information visit: Moneycare - Financial Counselling Services | The Salvation Army Australia

TIACS

TIACS is a professional mental health counselling service for tradies, truckies, farmers and blue-collar workers. TIACS removes the physical and financial barriers to accessing help through a simple text and call service directly to professional counsellors. Call or Text TIACS on 0488 846 988 or visit their website: TIACS - This is a Conversation Starter

Colac Area Health Counselling Services

Colac Area Health provides General Counselling for men and women aged 16 and older. The service is free and self-referrals are accepted. Session numbers are limited but negotiable according to need. Call 5232 5100 or visit General Counselling - Colac Area Health to get in touch.

headspace Colac

headspace Colac provides mental health, physical and sexual health, alcohol and other drug services, as well as work and study support to young people aged 12-25, and their families and friends. Call 5232 5520 or visit their website: headspace Colac Youth Mental Health Centre & Services

If your property has been impacted by fire and you have urgent animal welfare needs, please contact the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.

You can also report any dead or injured animals, crop loss or damage, or fodder and water needs online at Agriculture Victoria Bushfires | Emergency management | Farm management | Agriculture Victoria