Victoria fires: WA firefighters put up their hands to help as Victoria declares a fire disaster

Western Australia is lending a helping hand by deploying firefighters to Victoria’s fire zone, as authorities confirm about 300 homes and buildings have been destroyed.

Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan warned the State is not yet “through the worst”, with 32 active fires still burning and multiple evacuation orders issued on Sunday.

Emergency warnings are in place for towns surrounding the out-of-control Walwa, Cape Otways and Longwood blazes, with fears that conditions could deteriorate through the day.

Anthony Albanese has activated disaster recovery payments, even as the firefight continues.

“We have got your backs,” the Prime Minister said on Sunday.

“What we’re doing at the moment is where immediate need is there, providing that support, that immediate support, $1,000 payments, $400 payments for every child, emergency fodder support for the agricultural sector.

“But this is initial support. We will provide whatever is necessary.”

A WA contingent of 20 firefighters, a taskforce leader and a 17-member incident management team flew out of Perth early on Sunday morning for a seven-day mission to help stretched Victorian crews.

They were responding to an SOS request from Emergency Management Victoria.

“Resource sharing is critical when natural disasters strike, and we can cycle through our specialist teams and provide support for as long as it is required.

“WA emergency services specialists from DFES and DBCA are extraordinary people who are selfless and driven to protect communities affected by bushfires of this magnitude.

“They are renowned Australia-wide for their expertise and will provide valuable additional resources to help Victorian crews during these challenging times.”

Emergency Services Minister Paul Papalia says WA is ready and able to assist.

“Victorians are in peril, and Western Australians are stepping forward to help. It’s really heartening,” he said.

“These people are the best of Western Australians stepping forward with no notice to go the other side of the country to help their fellow countrymen and women in their time of need.”