The devastating bushfires sweeping across NSW and Queensland have affected countless communities with many forced to evacuate their homes.
Firefighters as well as various charities and animal rescue groups have worked tirelessly to help those in need, but if you’re wondering what you can do, there are ways to lend a hand.
Most major charities say that financial donations are the best and fastest way to help those in need rather than donating items like food and clothing.
“Our experience with emergencies shows that donations of money, where possible, help affected communities recover sooner. This is because people can make their own choices – including purchasing the goods they need for their own families,” the Australian Red Cross said in a statement.
Keep scrolling to see how you can donate and help out those in need.
There are many organisations that you can donate to and help those affected by the bushfires.
(Image: Twitter)The Australian Red Cross
Teams with the Australian Red Cross are supporting communities affected by the many bushfires raging in New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia.
Specialist emergency volunteers are providing those affected with psychological first aid, working at evacuation centres and helping people to get in touch with their loved ones.
You can donate to the Australian Red Cross by visiting their website or by making a donation over the counter at Commonwealth Bank branches.
The NSW Rural Fire Service
Rural Fire Service brigades rely heavily on volunteers, so financial donations are much appreciated.
If you wish to donate via bank transfer or cheque/money order, then you can visit their website here or donate to the NSW Rural Fire Service here
The Rural Fire Service relies heavily on volunteers.
(Image: Twitter)The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army’s general community manager of fundraising, Andrew Hill, says the group has a $3 million appeal target, but the charity is still taking donations.
“Our teams are providing meals to evacuees and frontline responders, and will continue to provide whatever support is needed as the situation develops,” said Major Topher Holland, General Manager Strategic Emergency and Disaster Management.
“For our Salvo Emergency Services to be active at this many locations at one time in one region is unprecedented.”
You can donate to the Salvo’s Disaster Appeal here.
The Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) teams are responding to the devastating bushfires.
(Image: The Salvation Army)The St Vincent de Paul Society
Vinnies not only have their own bushfire appeal, but they’re also on the ground helping victims in the immediate aftermath and are assisting them with their longer-term recovery.
According to them, a donation of as little as $50 can provide food for families who have been evacuated from their homes, and if you donate between $150 and $300 can help out with clothing, bills and unexpected expenses.
Donate to their bushfire appeal here.
Donations will help those affected by the bushfires with food, clothing and bills among other expenses.
(Image: Getty Images)Wildlife rescue
It’s not just people who are in need, our native wildlife is in danger too.
The Port Macquarie Koala Hospital estimates as many as 350 koalas have died, adding that about 75 per cent of the fireground is in prime koala habitat.
If you wish to donate to help the organisation purchase and distribute automatic drinking stations which will assist in helping koala and wildlife survival, visit their page here.
WATCH: These two koalas rescued from the bushfires are eating again. Post continues after video…
You can also donate to other wildlife rescue groups including Koalas in Care and the Rescue Collective.
Remember, even a small donation can make a big difference.
