BushfireHub

In a bushfire emergency, our department and Local Land Services (LLS) work together as the Agriculture and Animal Services Functional Area (AASFA), supporting the NSW Rural Fire Service to:

• Assist primary producers, animal holding establishments and the community to be prepared for bushfires
• Coordinate support of animal owners/carers at evacuation sites to ensure the welfare of the animals.
• Coordinate the provision of emergency animal feed and water for the welfare of livestock and other isolated animals.
• Coordinate assessment, humane euthanasia and burial of affected animals
• Support recovery arrangements including providing impact damage assessments and contributing to recovery centres and committees

Being prepared is key to minimising the impacts of fire on your property, your family and your animals. Find out what you need to do before, during and after a bushfire emergency.

Bushfire affected farmers and landholders

Fire affected farmers and land managers requiring assistance with livestock assessment, animal welfare and veterinary assistance or livestock euthanasia or burial, can call 1800 814 647.

Emergency fodder is available as a temporary measure for up to 3-days to give landholders time to make decisions about their stock. It will be distributed according to the following criteria:

• If there a genuine animal welfare issue within 5-7 days of the fire
• If 30% or more of the property has been affected
• If there are no stored fodder or pasture reserves on the landowner's property(s)
• If the owner can't source off-farm fodder or access is restricted.

Exceptional circumstances will be assessed case by case.

Recovery and assistance