Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Victoria's Bushfires: 434 Homes Lost, $171M Recovery Fund

1/28/2026

32 8

Summary

Story summary

Victoria's bushfires have destroyed at least 434 homes and burned more than 435,000 hectares, with one life lost.
Firefighters face erratic conditions after a wind shift accelerated fire spread.
Emergency warnings remain in effect for Otways communities, including Gellibrand and Barongarook, and the Australian Defence Force is providing support.
The federal government has allocated $171 million for recovery efforts.

1 of 1

Story summary

Victoria's bushfires have destroyed at least 434 homes and burned more than 435,000 hectares, with one life lost.
Firefighters face erratic conditions after a wind shift accelerated fire spread.
Emergency warnings remain in effect for Otways communities, including Gellibrand and Barongarook, and the Australian Defence Force is providing support.
The federal government has allocated $171 million for recovery efforts.