News & Media

21 October 2022

Help for Victorians affected by floods

The current flood emergency in Victoria continues to affect many people in the communities where we work. There is a range of support available to anyone experiencing difficulty during this time.

If you or a loved one is impacted by the floods, please let them know about the following options.

One-off emergency relief payment

Emergency relief payments are available for those whose homes have been affected by Victoria’s current flood emergency.

It is a one-off payment for immediate relief needs, including food, clothing, medication and accommodation.

Apply using the online application form.

If your application is successful, you will receive payment via direct deposit within three to five business days. If you can’t be paid via direct deposit or need help with the application, request a call back.

Financial help to return home

You can get financial help to return home if you cannot:

  1. live in your home because it is damaged or destroyed, or:
  2. access your home for more than 7 days because of flooding,

This is called ‘re-establishment assistance’. It can help to pay for clean-up, emergency accommodation, repairs, rebuilding, and replacing some damaged contents.

This support is means tested. You can only get it if you:

  1. do not have building (home) insurance or contents insurance, and:
  2. are experiencing financial hardship.

Phone the Flood Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760 to find out if you can get financial help to return home.

Other help during the flood emergency

Phone the Flood Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760 to find out what help is available for you. If you need an interpreter, press 9 when you call.

Temporary accommodation and emergency relief centres are available to Victorians affected by the flood emergency. Visit Relief and Recovery on VicEmergency for more information.

The Australian Government is also offering financial assistance. Visit Services Australia for more information.

For family violence services, contact the Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre on 1800 015 188.

If you are in immediate danger, phone triple zero (000).

Stay up-to-date

During an emergency, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest warnings and information.

  1. Visit the VicEmergency website.
  2. Get the VicEmergency App from Apple App Store or Google Play.
  3. Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and Twitter.

If you are travelling near flood-affected areas, be careful and conservative in your judgement around floodwaters or damaged roads. Take care of yourselves and your loved ones. Remember, in an emergency, phone triple zero (000).