Victoria Bushfires Destroy 350 Buildings; Relief Fund Launched Amid Ongoing Fires
January 12, 2026
Victoria’s bushfires have destroyed 350 buildings so far. Officials warn this number may rise as more areas are checked. Twelve large fires still burn across the state.
Premier Jacinta Allan spoke from Natimuk, western Victoria, on Monday. She said the Grass Flat fire burned 30 homes in Natimuk, including houses of volunteer firefighters. Allan called the losses "heartbreaking". She said, "This is a small community, a strong community. That 30 homes represents a significant proportion of the population here in Natimuk." She added the community is already uniting to rebuild and support one another.
Emergency management commissioner Tim Wiebusch said the damage is widespread across Victoria. More losses are expected as assessments continue. Though conditions eased Monday, people were warned to prepare for a tough season ahead.
Country Fire Authority chief Jason Heffernan shared that weather data predicts warmer conditions in late January, increasing fire risks. "There’s a lot of fire in the landscape," he said. Victorians have time to prepare before fire risk spikes again.
The Longwood fire destroyed at least 154 structures in Euroa and Yarck areas, including homes and outbuildings. Streatham lost 59 structures, with 18 homes gone. Ravenswood and Harcourt lost 47 homes and three businesses. Both areas suffered livestock losses too. Other towns affected include Yarroweyah and Walwa, which have lost structures and face ongoing agricultural damage.
Wiebusch confirmed remains found near Longwood belong to a man whose car was found off the road. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the news "devastating" and sent support to families and affected communities. Another man died in Harcourt from a suspected medical episode.
Firefighters have contained blazes in Streatham, Mount Mercer, and Natimuk. Emergency warnings remain for Walwa and the Carlisle River fire near Irrewillipe. Warnings in Longwood and Otway have eased. Harcourt residents can return from 6pm Monday to check property damage.
The fire affected over 3,600 hectares, but firefighters saved key community spots like the school and petrol station.
Premier Allan announced a fund to help victims. Uninsured households can get up to $52,250 to rebuild. Mental health and business support services will expand. Grants of up to $5,000 will support wellbeing events. The government launched the 2026 Victorian Bushfire Appeal for donations, encouraging public support.
Allan denied cuts to emergency services funding. Heffernan said the CFA budget rose yearly and received extra $20 million for this fire season. He acknowledged concerns over old trucks but noted over 167 new trucks are being made or delivered.
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Tags:
Victoria Bushfires
Building Loss
Fire Season
Emergency Aid
Firefighters
Community Recovery
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