THE Victorian Farmers Federation has announced the opening of applications for primary producer bushfire recovery grants, and concessional loans supporting farmers impacted by the January 2026 bushfires.

Applications are for the loans and grants are now open and close at 4pm on 21 October 2026, the VFF said.

Bushfire recovery grants

The grant provides up to $75,000 to assist with clean-up and reinstatement of primary production enterprises that have suffered direct damage.

The grant is delivered in two tiers:

• Tier 1: Up to $10,000 upfront to support initial recovery activities. Evidence of direct damage is required, but tax invoices and receipts are not required at application stage.
• Tier 2: Up to $65,000 for further reinstatement costs, with full tax invoices and receipts required for all amounts claimed (including for the initial $10,000 upfront grant).

Farmers may make up to three claims (to a maximum of $75,000 in total), with any additional claims considered by Rural Finance on a case-by-case basis. Eligible activities include safety inspections, hiring or purchasing clean-up equipment, reinstating essential infrastructure, and debris and livestock disposal.

Primary Producer Bushire Recovery concessional loans

Concessional loans are available to support recovery where significant asset damage or income loss has occurred.

• Up to $250,000 for significant asset damage.

• Up to $100,000 for significant loss of income.

• Maximum total loan: $250,000, assessed on financial position and insurance recoveries.

Loans can be used for:

• Asset replacement: Repairing/replacing plant, equipment, buildings, stock, livestock, or replanting affected areas.

• Working capital: Paying bills, wages, rent/rates, essential goods and services, fodder/water, or transporting livestock/produce.

Eligibility

To qualify for either grants or loans, applicants must:

• Operate a primary production enterprise;

• Be located within the defined disaster area; and

• Have suffered direct damage from the January 2026 bushfires.

How to apply

Applications for grants and loans can be submitted online, by email or post to Rural Finance with further information regarding both grants and loans available on the Rural Finance website: Grants | Rural Finance and Loans | Rural Finance.

For assistance in applying for the grants or loans, or if you have any questions, please contact Rural Finance at [email protected] or 1800 260 425.