The Albanese Government is activating financial assistance through the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) for communities impacted by the recent bushfires in Victoria.
From 2pm local time on Wednesday 14 January 2026, the AGDRP will be available for eligible people in the following locations: Barkers Creek, Harcourt, Harcourt North, Longwood, Longwood East, Natimuk, Ravenswood South, Ruffy and Sutton Grange.
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 jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) the Albanese and Allan Governments have activated to help households, small businesses, primary producers and councils.
People can check their eligibility for AGDRP on the Services Australia website: servicesaustralia.gov.au/disastersupport
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.
Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:
“The impact of these bushfires is being felt across Victoria, and my thoughts are with those affected. Services Australia staff stand ready to assist, because we know how important timely support is in these situations.
“This financial assistance is designed to help cover essential costs for people who’ve been hardest hit by these fires, whether that’s replacing necessities or finding temporary accommodation.
“I encourage anyone in the impacted areas to check their eligibility on the Services Australia website and make a claim by signing into their Centrelink online account through myGov.”
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:
“These bushfires have caused significant disruption and damage, and we know many families are facing an incredibly challenging time. This payment is about giving people the immediate support they need to start getting back on their feet.
“We know that this situation is changing quickly. We’re working closely with local councils and emergency services to make sure help reaches those who need it most, as quickly as possible.
“Providing AGDRP is one of the ways we’re standing with affected communities, and we’ll continue to support them throughout the recovery process.”