Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF), Media Release, 14 January 2025
The Australian public is being called upon to unite and lend a helping hand to our farmers in need, as they battle the Victorian bushfire crisis – one of the worst in years. Support is critical to ensuring farmers and their communities receive the help they need, right now.
In response to the crisis, Victorian Farmers’ Federation (VFF) – the state’s peak farmer advocacy body – has activated its Disaster Relief Fund to provide immediate, farmer-led support to producers impacted by the catastrophic bushfires.
Brett Hosking, fifth generation grain farmer and President of the VFF, says the uniquely farmer-led program exists precisely for moments like this, allowing the VFF to get funds directly into the hands of farmers without the usual red tape.
“Every donation goes to support farmers in need, providing immediate grants to those who have suffered loss and to replace vital infrastructure, fodder and equipment, while also meeting basic household needs,” he says.
“But it’s about more than just rebuilding farms. In times of crisis, immediate financial help eases stress, restores hope, and supports the mental wellbeing of farming families – giving them strength as they continue to battle the blazes, and then to rebuild and recover.”
Hosking acknowledged the huge generosity on show from the community and the ability of people to pull together in times of need.
“History has shown that in times of devastation, Australians always band together and dig deep. It’s part of our DNA,” he says.
“During the worst of times is often when the very best of the community is on show. Farmers need help and donating is the best way people can do that.”
“These bushfires are devastating for so many families and farming communities across Victoria, and it’s important we learn from lessons in the past by ensuring support is immediately directed to those most affected. And that’s what our Disaster Fund does.”
With every dollar donated going directly to farmers in need, the past two decades has seen millions of dollars’ worth of support delivered to Victorian farmers in the face of natural disasters and major crises.
The VFF will begin distributing these funds immediately as direct cash grants to affected farmers.
How to donate
The VFF Disaster Relief Fund is a registered charity. Tax deductable donations can be made online at www.vff.org.au/donations, or by cheque made out to ‘VFF Disaster Relief Fund’ to the Victorian Farmers Federation, 24 Collins Street, Melbourne Vic 3000.
No matter how large or small, every single cent donated will support farmers in navigating and recovering from these shocking bushfires.
If you are a farmer who has been impacted by the devastating fires across our state, you can access the funds by contacting the VFF at vff@vff.org.au.
