Quick exit
Residents impacted by the Otway Ranges bushfires are encouraged to attend the Carlisle River Community Fun Day on Saturday 28 March, from 11am to 2pm.
Barwon Community Legal Service will attend the event to provide free legal information and referrals, joined by specialist services Consumer Action Law Centre (CALC) and Mortgage Stress Victoria to support residents affected by the fires.
Many people experience legal challenges following a disaster. Common issues include:
- Financial hardship
- Insurance claims
- Tenancy issues
- Debt management
- Employment issues
- Replacing damaged, lost or destroyed documents
- Family violence
- Family law and parenting orders
- Compliance with intervention orders
- Navigating government assistance
Attendees will be able to speak directly with lawyers and service providers, gather resources, and learn about the free legal support available in the region.
Barwon Community Legal Service CEO Bryanna Connell said being present at local community events helps ensure people can access trusted advice at a time when legal systems can feel daunting and difficult to navigate.
“Disaster recovery is stressful enough. No one should have to manage complex legal issues on their own,” Ms Connell said. “Many people don’t realise that free legal help is available to after a disaster, whether that’s dealing with insurers, replacing lost documents, or resolving tenancy and housing issues.”
Ms Connell also urged residents to seek advice early, particularly where offers of cash settlements or post-disaster scams are involved.
“We urge residents to seek advice before accepting cash settlements,” Ms Connell said.
“Quick offers can seem helpful in a crisis, but they may leave people worse off in the long run. Unfortunately, disaster‑affected communities are also targeted by scammers, so getting legal advice before agreeing to anything is the safest step.”
Bringing legal services, support organisations and community agencies together in one place means residents can get coordinated information without needing multiple appointments.
“Whether your question is big or small, we are here to help,” Ms Connell said.
“Even if you are not sure whether your issue is a legal one, if the bushfires have affected your home, property, work or wellbeing, we can help provide clarity and connect you to the right support.”
Event details
Event: Free legal support at the Carlisle River Community Fun Day
Date: Saturday 28 March 2026
Time: 11am–2pm
Venue: Carlisle River Primary School, Carlisle River
Cost: Free
Who should attend
- Residents affected by the Otway bushfires.
- Anyone dealing with legal, insurance, tenancy, document loss or financial issues due to recent disasters.
- Local community organisations supporting disaster‑affected residents.
For more event information, contact Barwon Community Legal Service Community Development Manager Alexandria Jones on 1300 430 599 or email education@barwoncommunitylegal.org.au.
For media enquiries, please contact Barwon Community Legal Service CEO Bryanna Connell on 0411 343 722 or email bryanna.connell@barwoncommunitylegal.org.au.
