Communities across Victoria have been devastated by more than 400 bushfires that have swept across the state in the most severe weather conditions we’ve seen in our history.

The 2009 Victorian Bushfire Fund to assist individuals and communities affected by devastating bushfires in Victoria has been launched by the Premier John Brumby in partnership with Red Cross and the Federal Government. A number of corporate organisations including NAB, ANZ, CBA and Wesfarmers have also contributed to the fund.

As at 3pm on the 10th February, the Fund had received $25.7 million from over 139,000 website and phone donations, with governments including the Victorian Government and Federal Government and corporates pledging additional sums. Donations are still continuing to flow in.

An independent panel made up of community leaders will oversee the appeal Fund's operation. Criteria for assistance will include the extent of the hardship covered and the extent to which a person's livelihood has been impacted.

Individuals and organisations wishing to make a donation to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund can go to www.red cross.org.au or call the toll free number 1800 811 700

The money will go to people who were seriously injured or hospitalised, and to those who have lost their homes.

For more information on the Australian Red Cross, click here.