Victorians affected by brutal Christmas Day bushfires that ravaged the state's surf coast will be able to access up to $1300 in emergency relief.
The 2200-hectare blaze tore through holiday hot spots along the Great Ocean Road on Friday and razed more than 100 homes.
The Victorian and Commonwealth governments on Saturday confirmed households hit by the fires would be able to apply for up to $1300 in immediate natural disaster relief, and $32,500 in re-establishment payments.
The Insurance Council of Australia on Saturday declared the bushfires a catastrophe, estimating initial insurance losses of $25 million.
The state and federal governments have offered emergency relief of up to $520 per adult and $260 per child (up to $1300 per household) to help pay for emergency food, shelter, clothing and personal items.
The two tiers of government say households will also be able to apply for up to $32,500 to help fund clean-up efforts, repairs, replacing damaged contents and rebuilding destroyed homes.
Victorian Emergency Services Minister Jane Garrett said the relief grants would help locals get back on their feet as fast as possible.
"It has been devastating for these communities at Christmas time, which is why we are making sure people have the support they need," she said.
Ms Garrett said firefighters were working tirelessly to control the blazes, but warned that locals weren't in the clear yet, with the fires expected to continue burning for several weeks.
Share
