Prime Minister Scott Morrison has called on the Australian Defence Force Reserves to assist with bushfire-affected communities.

The ADF has been in action across the country for months, with the bushfire season first claiming a life in October.

However, Saturday afternoon's revelation means thousands of personnel will be deployed to search through firegrounds.

"Just around half an hour ago, the Governor-General signed off on the call-out of the Australian Defence Force Reserve to search and bring every possible capability to bear by deploying army brigades to fire-affected communities across Australia," Morrison said.

"The priority of this deployment is to assist in ensuring the safety of life, to support the evacuation of affected people, particularly in isolated communities and to provide assistance to isolated communities and support state-managed evacuation centres."

In the video below: The latest on the Victorian bushfires

Play Video The latest from state controller Gary Cook. The latest from state controller Gary Cook.

Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said it was not a decision taken without due consideration.

"Can I say the government has not taken this decision lightly," she said.

More from 7NEWS.com.au on the bushfire crisis:

"In fact, it’s the first time that reserves have been called out in this way in living memory and, in fact, I believe for the first time in our nation's history."

The HMAS Adelaide is also being deployed to assist in the evacuation of bushfire victims.

In the video below: NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons gives an update on the NSW bushfires

Play Video Update from NSW fire commissioner Update from NSW fire commissioner

In the same press conference, Morrison confirmed he had delayed his trips to India and Japan.

He said he had spoken to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, both of whom, he said, offered their condolences for the loss of life sustained in the fires.

Many have been asking how you can help the people and animals affected by the bushfire crisis. We’ve launched the ‘HELP HERE’ page to make that easier for you.