Compassion and Bereavement Payment -
APPLICATIONS FOR THIS GIFT ARE NOW CLOSED

Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund

The Victorian Bushfire Appeals Advisory Committee has agreed to the provision of a Compassion and Bereavement Payment to assist families of individuals who have died in the 2009 Victorian Bushfires.  

The purpose of the Compassion and Bereavement Payment is to provide immediate support to those families that have lost loved ones in the 2009 Victorian bushfires. The payment provides assistance to families to help meet any immediate needs, including funeral and travel related costs.

The Compassion and Bereavement Payment is in addition to previously announced Commonwealth and Victorian Government financial assistance and will be funded from donations to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal.

Am I eligible?

You are eligible for the Compassion and Bereavement Payment if you are the next-of-kin of an individual who has died in the 2009 Victorian bushfires.

The Compassion and Bereavement Payment will not be means-tested and will be paid irrespective of insurance coverage.

What assistance is available?

If you are eligible you will receive a $10,000 payment. Only one payment is available for the family of each deceased individual. Payments will be made to your nominated bank account.

How do I claim?

Applications for this payment closed on 9 October 2009.

Is there a restriction on how the payment can be spent?

No.

What information do I need to provide?

The Government recognises the extraordinary circumstances that families are facing and will work with individuals to ensure that any necessary information can be obtained in a flexible and sensitive manner. The Government will need to reasonably establish proof of identity, proof of relationship and confirm that the deceased died as a direct result of the 2009 Victorian bushfires.

Who will administer the Compassion and Bereavement Payment?

The Compassion and Bereavement Payment will be administered by the Department of Human Services.

How do I find out about other assistance?

Contact the Bushfire Hotline on 1800 240 667 or view information on assistance available on the Department of Human Services website.