The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) has been deeply moved by the devastation the Australian bushfires have caused to thousands of people, wildlife and our beautiful natural environment. On Monday, our CEO Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward FACN penned a heartfelt letter offering our sympathies for those affected and acknowledging the nurses who are providing care to communities during this difficult time. The generosity of people across Australia has been evident by the large number of donations to support those in bushfire impacted areas. If you are wishing to donate, we have outlined a list of the best ways to do so below.
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What is the best way to help people impacted?
Authorities and charities have received an overwhelming amount of goods and supplies. However, charities are already stretched to the limit during these times and receiving excess items creates an additional burden.
This sentiment has been echoed by Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, who released a tweet on Sunday outlining:
“I know it’s tough to watch this all unfold & feel helpless. I know a lot of people want to get stuck in & lend a hand. But it’s important to remember that the emergency relief effort is being run by experienced organisations – & they don’t have space to sort or store donations.”
Monetary donations are the best way to help those impacted. We have provided the website links to reputable organisations you can support below. If you are donating through other sources please be aware of scam donation campaigns, particularly online. You can learn more about how to identify these here.
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Donation organisations
Support Victims
Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery
St Vincent De Paul Society Bushfire Appeal
Support firefighting efforts
Country Fire Authority (CFA), Victoria
South Australia Country Fire Service Foundation
Support injured wildlife
South Australian Veterinary Emergency Management Donations
Wildlife Victoria Bushfire appeal
Again, ACN would like to express our deepest sympathies for all those who have been impacted by the Australian bushfire crisis and acknowledge the generosity of people all around the word who are making a difference.
