General News
19 January, 2026
Premier visits region
Victorian premier Jacinta Allan spent two hours with residents of Natimuk and nearby communities affected by Friday's Grass Flat fire, which destroyed 17 homes and 30 buildings in total.
Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery Vicki Ward joined her during the visit.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Albanese announced a $19.5 million support package for the fire-affected area, including Natimuk.
The Premier then announced additional support, including emergency assistance packages of up to $52,250 for people who could not insure their main home.
People who cannot return home or rebuild are eligible to apply for this funding.
Premier Allan said that, in addition to rebuilding support for fire-affected communities, the government has also brought forward extra well-being support funding.
This is a free and confidential service offered through the Rural Financial Counselling Service.
Wellbeing counsellors, who were first appointed during the drought response, will now be available to visit bushfire-affected producers and their families at their properties or by phone.
The package will also move up the start date of the state government's ‘Look Over the Farm Gate’ program, run by the National Centre for Farmer Health, to support farming communities under stress.
Minister Ward announced more support in addition to the $19.5 million already mentioned by the Premier.
$10 million will be available for fodder, $5 million to help businesses restart, $1.5 million for emergency access funding, and another $1 million for mental health support.
Adults can receive $680 and children $340, with a maximum of $2,380 per family.
To apply for this payment, people can call 1800 226 226 or reach out to their local disaster relief centre.
An extra one-off payment of $1,000 per adult and $400 per child is available through Service Victoria.
Extra mental health support will be available through the Rural Primary Producers confidential support service. People can call 1300 771 741 for help.
Farmers worried about their livestock are encouraged to call Agriculture Victoria on 1800 226 226 to get help.