Melbourne and other parts of Victoria blanketed in smokey haze across the weekend as a result of fires in state’s south-east

This article is more than 1 year old

This article is more than 1 year old

As bushfires continue to rage across Victoria, victims are set to get access to individual support workers to help rebuild their lives.

There are 17 fires still out of control and 31 homes have been lost, so far.

Melbourne and other parts of Victoria have been blanketed in a smokey haze across the weekend as a result of fires in the state’s south-east.

VicEmergency (@vicemergency) This WARNING is being issued for poor air quality which is very unhealthy for everybody.



Due to weather conditions smoke is expected to linger until Sunday 10th March 2019https://t.co/FIHpQILAW1 pic.twitter.com/FII1FvdT7M

The highest risk fire in the Bunyip State Park, east of Melbourne, has scorched about 15,000 hectares.

Blazes at Dinner Plain, Yinnar South, Mt Wellington, Dargo, Black Snake Creek and Licola are also of huge concern to the Country Fire Authority.

Milder weather conditions over the weekend are expected to assist firefighting efforts.

The Victorian government has announced a case support program to help people living in fire affected areas including Cardinia Shire, Baw Baw Shire, Latrobe Valley, Wellington Shire and East Gippsland Shire.

It will offer a single point of contact to help fire victims access support such as financial assistance, mental health support and guidance on repairing and rebuilding properties.

Emergency services minister Lisa Neville said the targeted support is on top of the $660,000 in emergency relief payments already provided to households.

VicEmergency (@vicemergency) We have partnered with @bendigobank to establish a Community Relief Fund in support of community members affected by the recent south east Victoria fires.



Donations to the Community Relief Fund can also be made online via https://t.co/7HcS4oM5Ws https://t.co/hcnWAPmwD2 pic.twitter.com/DEUmDOOOqp

“I know there are families who have lost everything and are suffering,” she said in a statement.

“We are standing with them, and will continue to give them the support they need to recover and rebuild.”

People can access a case support worker by contacting their local council, visiting a fire recovery centre or by calling 1800 560 760.