This program helps people in the community who do not have the financial means to re-establish their homes after a disaster. Re-establishment assistance is means-tested.

Eligible homeowners and renters can access a maximum of $52,250 to get back into a home when they have been impacted by serious damage.

This financial assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Emergency re-establishment payments can be accessed by eligible homeowners and renters who:

• do not have the financial means to fix their home or replace contents damaged by the fires
• do not have building or contents insurance
• cannot return home because it is damaged or destroyed
• cannot get to their home for more than 7 days because of a natural disaster.

The affected home must be the principal place of residence.

Renters who meet the criteria are eligible for payment to cover costs of alternative accommodation and replacing essential household items.

Call the Emergency Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760 and press 4 to apply for a re-establishment assistance payment.

For translating and interpreting support press 9 or call TIS on 131 450.

For re-establishment assistance, you will also need to show proof of:

• income, for example, a payslip or Centrelink payment summary
• insurance status, for example, a document from your insurance company
• impact on your home, for example, photos of damages or quotes for repairs.
• If you need help, please call the VicEmergency hotline on 1800 226 226. Press 9 for an interpreter.

• Phone: 1800 560 760