Explore the different support and resources that may be available to you.
Immediate support
If you are experiencing a personal crisis, support services are available in Victoria. We also encourage you to reach out to family or friends who may be able to provide social, emotional, practical, or material support during a time of crisis. This could include supporting you to look after your pet.
In the event of an emergency, you should call 000
Telephone and online services
A range of telephone and online mental health crisis services.
health.vic.gov.au/mental-health-services/telephone-and-online-services(opens in a new window)
Crisis and emergency accommodation
Assistance during a housing crisis.
housing.vic.gov.au/crisis-emergency-accommodation (opens in a new window)
Family violence support services
Support for people experiencing family violence.
vic.gov.au/family-violence-support-services (opens in a new window)
Emergency preparedness and recovery
Information and supports from the Victorian Government to prepare for, and recover from, emergency events.
vic.gov.au/safety-and-emergencies(opens in a new window)
Discuss with those closest to you
Have an open conversation about the decision to rehome your wildlife, particularly with others in your household. If you live alone, talk things through with somebody you trust. Investigate if anybody else in your household, or local friends and family, can provide help, even it’s short‑term.
Financial hardship
If you are facing financial hardship, you can:
- Reach out to a financial counsellor, who can offer free and confidential information, advice and advocacy.
- Explore affordable pet insurance options.
- Talk with your vet about payment plans if vet care is needed.
- Explore financial supports that may be available to you. This could be assistance through government programs or supports offered by local not-for-profit organisations, such as once-off financial assistance, food or material goods.
- If you have are experiencing hardship following an emergency, explore whether payments may be available through the Personal Hardship Assistance Program.
Financial counselling providers
Personal Hardship Assistance
services.dffh.vic.gov.au/personal-hardship-assistance-program(opens in a new window)
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