Has your business been affected by the fires? These resources can help

In January 2019, I wrote the most difficult Flying Solo article I’d ever written.

In January 2020, there are difficult times again, this time experienced by thousands of people in Australia. Bushfires are burning our country, wreaking havoc in a multitude of ways. Fire fighters and other first responders (for both people and animals) are working tirelessly amidst extreme conditions and bone-aching exhaustion. Thousands of residents have been displaced, many have lost their homes, some have lost their lives. Millions of animals have perished, whole habitats have been scorched. 

It’s a sombre start to the New Year, the new decade. 

If you are directly or indirectly affected by the fires, I’m so sorry. I’m thinking of you. 

Aside from sharing thoughts, here are some links that may assist. 

Resources that may be useful

• Government assistance for business owners  
  
  Note, the fires have worsened and spread since the above information was published. Contact the Department of Human Services for up-to-date financial assistance and recovery grants.
  
• Recovery checklist
  
  If your premises has been damaged, this checklist breaks down what to do, from start to finish.
  
• Recovering after a natural disaster, published by Lifeline
  
  For emotional and psychological advice/resources, this article offers some timely, important information. Also, here are some national help lines published by Beyond Blue

Articles published on Flying Solo that may be of interest

• Financial checklist for small businesses affected by fires
• Small Business Mental Health
• Disaster Recovery: Coming back from the brink
• Disaster proof your business

Feel like talking and sharing stories, advice and general thoughts?

• Start a discussion on the Flying Solo Forums
• Share useful advice, tips, resources or personal experiences in the comments section of this article, or on any of Flying Solo’s social media channels.

Additionally, for those who’d like to donate money, time or goods, this article offers a number of options  as does this one.

Our Aussie spirit, positivity and resilience will help us bounce back. But it’s also okay to say this situation totally sucks. It’s okay to grieve. It’s okay to wish for a crazy, huge downpour! If rain-creation is your line of work, let us know… 

What are your thoughts? Do you have some resources, advice or stories you’d like to share?