In response to the 2019-20 Victorian bushfires, FCVic initiated a Bushfire Recovery Support Project to coordinate and assist with the delivery of financial counselling services in bushfire-affected communities. The project was effective in establishing vital links between financial counselling and other recovery support services, and identifying key areas for systemic advocacy.

The full review report, authored by consultants Bev Kliger and Meredith Carter, provides an evaluation of FCVic’s Bushfire Recovery Support Project and includes a series of recommendations to ensure the effective utilisation of financial counselling as part of bushfire recovery response efforts.

Bushfire recovery is a long-term process, with many financial issues emerging over time. The need for financial counselling in affected areas will continue to evolve, and as the report identifies there is a need for FCVic to continue its bushfire recovery support role.