Housing service to assist bushfire response

Last published on 09 Jan 2020 

A dedicated housing assistance service has been launched today to support the urgent housing needs of residents impacted by the bushfires.

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said the Bushfire Housing Assistance Service would provide support to those temporarily or permanently displaced during the bushfire crisis.

“This service will make it easier for residents impacted by these tragic bushfires to access support and secure a home or safe place to stay as soon as possible,” Mr Ward said.

“The NSW Government has also established a dedicated Bushfire Housing Assistance Response Team to proactively support communities that have been devastated by fires in the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern NSW region.”

Housing assistance available includes access to emergency accommodation, private rental bonds and advance rent payments.

People impacted by the fires can access the service by:

• calling the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line (DWAL) on 1800 018 444; or,
• contacting or visiting a local Department of Communities and Justice Housing office.

For more information, visit Bushfire Housing Assistance Service.

To find a local Department of Communities and Justice Housing office, visit Find a housing office.

Download Media Release: Housing service to assist bushfire response (PDF , 164.6 KB)