Synod Home :: Home :: The Victorian Bushfires :: The Victorian Bushfires
The Victorian Bushfires
Many Victorian rural communities have been devastated by
bushfires. People have lost homes and sustained
significant property damage affecting long term livelihood. Some
communities are mourning the death of loved ones.
This site will be constantly updated with the latest information regarding the Uniting Church's response to the bushfires.
Making a response:
- The National Assembly has released $50,000 from the national disaster fund for immediate use.
- Every congregation across Australia was asked by the
President of the Assembly to hold a special ‘retiring offering’ next
few Sunday’s to help the bushfire victims.
- The Uniting Church’s provision of chaplains and pastoral
support is being coordinated via the Victorian Council of Church’s
relationship with DISPLAN or by local arrangements.
- The Moderator is establishing a register of Ministers and
counsellors who will be available for counselling support as part of
the long term recovery program.
- In the meantime, the church is providing support for local ministers and congregations through their presbyteries.
- UnitingCare agencies are providing psychological
counselling and welfare assistance. UnitingCare is onsite in some
relief centers offering financial counselling and support. One of our
mobile kindergartens is being deployed to one of the emergency relief
centres for the benefit of children and parents.
- Congregations are encouraged to keep their churches open for prayer and reflection.
- The Uniting Church has provided spiritual prayers and resources to congregations for use over the next week.
- At this stage, we do not currently require furniture or clothing.
