Victorian Chamber launches free helpline and support hub for bushfire-impacted businesses
Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is urging businesses across Victoria’s fire-affected regions to reach out for support, launching a dedicated 2026 Bushfire HR Support Helpline and a regularly updated online resource hub to help operators navigate recovery.
With many regional employers facing damage, disruption, workforce issues and uncertainty, the Victorian Chamber is providing free, practical guidance to businesses located in declared State of Disaster areas impacted by the January 2026 bushfires.
The Victorian Chamber’s workplace relations advisers can assist with urgent HR and employment questions, including:
• Pay and leave options if staff are stood down
• Employee entitlements when staff cannot safely attend work
• Guidance on pay when sending staff home versus a government directive
• Information on payments for employees affected by the fires
• Referrals to other grants, agencies and recovery services
The Victorian Chamber’s resource hub also includes up-to-date information on emergency relief and government support.
Businesses can access the Victorian Chamber 2026 Bushfire HR Support Helpline by calling (03) 8662 5461 (available Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm). If lines are busy, callers can leave a message and will receive a call back.
The website is: www.victorianchamber.com.au/bushfire-support
To be attributed to Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Acting Chief Executive Amelia Bitsis:
“The Victorian Chamber’s priority is making sure business owners feel supported and have somewhere to turn for trusted, practical advice.
“These fires have caused enormous stress and disruption across our communities. Behind every small business is a family, a workforce and a region relying on them.
“We want business owners to know they are not alone - the Victorian Chamber is here to help with straightforward guidance, referrals and support to get them through this period.”
Contact details:
Rebecca Chin - 0423 883 945