East Gippsland Shire Council will receive new support to help local communities rebuild and recover following the devastating
2026 bushfires.
Under a $15 million Commonwealth–State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) package, 27 new Community Recovery Officers will be appointed across 15 Victorian councils, including East Gippsland and Wellington Shires. The funding also supports the establishment of local Recovery Hubs to provide practical, locally led assistance.
Community Recovery Officers work directly with councils to understand community needs and coordinate recovery efforts. Councils will oversee staffing appointments and determine the locations of Recovery Hubs.
This summer, bushfires destroyed or damaged more than 1,500 structures and burned over 430,000 hectares across Victoria, leaving lasting impacts on East Gippsland communities.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the funding would provide vital support to affected areas.
“Recovery has a long tail, and it will be some time before our bushfire-affected regions are fully back on their feet, but the Albanese Government will be there every step of the way,” she said.
Victorian Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery Vicki Ward added, “Recovery works best when it’s shaped by locals – we’re giving councils the people and places they need to support their communities through the long
road ahead.”
Victorians can find more information about recovery support on the Emergency Recovery Victoria website or by calling the Emergency Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760.
