On 6 January 2020, the National Bushfire Recovery Agency (the Agency) was established by Prime Minister Scott Morrison, to lead and coordinate a national response to rebuilding communities affected by bushfires across large parts of Australia.
We are focused on connecting people, communities, primary producers and businesses with the services and assistance they may need to rebuild and recover to support the recovery of all Australians.
The Agency is led by Mr Andrew Colvin, APM, OAM, former Commissioner of the Australian Federal Police, who will report to the Prime Minister through the Minister for Emergency Management, David Littleproud MP.
The Agency is responsible for administering a National Bushfire Recovery Fund which is supporting recovery efforts across Australia over the next two years. An initial $2 billion has been allocated to this fund, which is in addition to other services and support available under existing natural disaster support mechanisms.
The Agency will work shoulder to shoulder with and for communities and collaborate with all levels of government, industry experts, business and charity sectors.
Immediate priorities include:
- primary producer grants for immediate and urgent recovery needs
- additional support for small business
- grants to bushfire affected Local Government Areas
- a mental health package for first responders and communities
- support to attract tourists back to the regions
- infrastructure projects to support economic, community and industry recovery and resilience, and
- support for the environment and native wildlife.
Our commitment:
We will work closely with state and local government agencies and key stakeholders to integrate recovery and rebuilding activities. We will work directly with communities, listening to locals and enabling local solutions to local issues.
Australians are resilient and want to rebuild – we will stand with those who have been touched by the bushfires, supporting their recovery every step of the way.
The National Bushfire Recovery Plan
The National Bushfire Recovery Plan (the Plan) is a strategic document that will support states, territories, communities and individuals in their specific recovery plans. It is being developed now, in consultation with states, territories and other stakeholders.