Accommodation

Accommodation hotline

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has a range of accommodation assistance available for people affected by the bushfires including short, medium and long term options.

The bushfire recovery section of the DHS website has a range of information about accommodation options as well as A Guide to Temporary Housing Options for People Affected by the Bushfires.

The guide provides a range of information to assist people as they consider their long-term housing options.

The booklet was jointly created by the Department of Human Services, Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority, Victorian Building Commission and Municipal Association of Victoria.

The Guide includes the latest information on temporary housing options for those who lost their homes in the February 2009 bushfires, the costs associated with temporary accommodation, information for those already living on their property and more.

Electronic copies can be downloaded from the bushfire section of the Department of Human Services website. The guide is also available from the Whittlesea Community Services Hub, case managers or by calling Victorian Bushfire Accommodation Line on 1800 006 468.

Accommodation clusters in Whittlesea township

Construction has started on a temporary accommodation cluster in Whittlesea township which will provide up to 12 one and two bedroom bungalow style cabins for people affected by the bushfires.

City of Whittlesea is working with the Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority (VBRRA) and the Department of Human Services on the cluster.

It is hoped the first tenants will be on-site in September.

Returning to your property

Temporary buildings such as transportable buildings, caravans and motorhomes do not require a building permit provided certain minimum requirements are met.

People considering staying in a caravan or other temporary housing on their property are encouraged to contact Council to discuss their situation and arrange a site inspection. While no building or planning permits are required, there are still a range of safety, health and environmental factors to consider including siting, power, grey water and sewerage.

Find out more about Temporary Accommodation.

Further information

DHS Accommodation Line
1800 006 468
To discuss your accommodation needs.

City of Whittlesea Bushfire Recovery
(03) 9217 2532
For those considering living on site in temporary accommodation.

Building Commission Bushfire Building Advice Line
1300 360 320
www.buildingcommission.vic.gov.au
A range of information people considering temporary accommodation on-site while they rebuild.