Mental health support for Aussies affected by bushfires
In a Nutshell
Bushfires can leave deep emotional impacts like anxiety, grief, and trauma, long after the flames are out.
In Australia, you can access free and low-cost support via crisis lines, community-based initiatives, and trauma-informed clinicians across the country.
Bushfires are a reality many Australian communities know all too well. While the physical damage is often visible, the emotional toll can be harder to spot. And even harder to heal.
For many, the stress of evacuation, the loss of homes or livelihoods, and the fear of it happening again can trigger lasting mental health challenges. Whether you’re a survivor, a responder, or simply someone who felt it from afar, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Thankfully, mental health support is available.
Crisis and emotional support lines
Lifeline - 13 11 14
Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636
Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467
13YARN (for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) - 13 92 76
Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
Local and outreach-based support
Disaster response and recovery clinicians: Available in affected areas to provide early mental health support and connect people with services.
Community connection: The Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) runs education sessions and helps people access care close to home.
These services are free and coordinated through local health districts or recovery centres in bushfire-impacted areas.
Counselling and psychological care
State-based public services: Many states offer free or low-cost mental health support through public health systems or bushfire recovery hubs.
Medicare-subsidised psychological support: You may be eligible for subsidised sessions with a psychologist through a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP.
Private health insurance psychology cover - If psychology is included in your insurance Extras, you may be able to access mental health support via in-person or telehealth sessions with an eligible mental health practitioner.
Youth-focused services
headspace - Counselling and mental health support for ages 12-25, available in person or online.
Kids Helpline - Phone and web counselling for children and young people under 25.
ReachOut - Digital tools and forums for teens and young adults.
Tips for supporting children
Keep routines where possible, especially around meals and sleep.
Reassure them with honest, age-appropriate conversations.
Help them name and express emotions through drawing, play or talking.
Limit their exposure to distressing news or social media.
Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
13YARN (13 92 76) - Run by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, offering a safe space to talk and be heard.
Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS) - Offer holistic health and wellbeing care, including mental health support.
How Talked can help
At Talked, we understand that recovering from the emotional toll of bushfires isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re dealing with stress, grief, anxiety, trauma or something else, our platform can connect you with qualified, compassionate mental health professionals who specialise in disaster recovery and trauma care.
Flexible access: Speak to a therapist online and at a time that works for you, no matter where you are in Australia.
Qualified professionals: Choose from experienced counsellors and psychologists who understand the challenges of bushfire recovery.
No waiting lists: Book sessions quickly and easily when you’re ready.
Confidential and secure: Your wellbeing and privacy are our priority.
Additional resources
Australian Association of Psychologists Inc - Mental health of bushfire victims must be supported through Medicare
Life in Mind - Support for bushfire-affected communities
NSW Health - Managing your mental health during and after a bushfire
Phoenix Australia - Bushfire support services
Get Support
Overcome your trauma and ptsd and book a free video consultation with one of our therapists
Essential Reading about Trauma and PTSD
Frequently Asked Questions
You may feel anxious, low, jumpy, or disconnected. Some people have trouble sleeping or experience flashbacks. These are common responses and often ease with time, but persistent distress may need support.
Start by calling a crisis line or speaking to your GP. In many areas, local health services or bushfire recovery centres also offer free counselling and mental health support.
Yes. Crisis lines, community outreach services, and some local programs don’t require referrals. However, Medicare-rebated psychology requires having a mental health treatment plan from a GP.
Yes. People affected emotionally Whether through media exposure, concern for loved ones, or community roles can also benefit from support.
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