Our thoughts are with all those affected by the recent fires that have devastated so many communities.
NRMA Roadside Assistance is still servicing areas that are safe and open to access. Members can call us on 13 11 11 for roadside assistance, but should call 000 if in an emergency situation. Some of our Patrols within regional areas have been directly impacted by the fires. We are moving our resources around to ensure that we are able to help people where we can.
Put safety first
We urge everyone to put safety first and take the advice of the Rural Fire Service, plus keep up-to-date on road closures through Live Traffic NSW. You can monitor the latest updates across the states through these resources: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania.
The Get Prepared app from the Australian Red Cross can also help you connect with key support people, accomplish simple tasks to keep you safer, and protect the things that matter most to you.
How you can help
We've received many messages from Members who are keen to assist those in need. The charities on the frontline are best placed to know what is needed and where. Monetary donations to the below organisations are one of the most useful ways you can help.
NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS)
Donations made directly to the NSW RFS are for the benefit of volunteer brigades are a tremendous help. All donations over $2.00 are tax-deductible. You can donate to NSW RFS by:
1. Posting a cheque or money order to:
NSW Rural Fire Service Locked Bag 17 Granville NSW 2142
2. Depositing funds directly to:
Account Name: NSW Rural Fire Service
Bank: Westpac
BSB: 032 001
Account No: 171051
Australian Red Cross
You can donate to the Disaster Relief and Recovery arm of the Australian Red Cross by:
1. Donating via the website
2. Calling 1800 RED CROSS (1800 733 276), Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm
3. Posting a cheque or money order to:
Australian Red Cross
GPO Box 2957
Melbourne VIC 3001
RSPCA NSW
RSPCA NSW is doing everything it can to help pets, livestock and wildlife – from evacuating those under threat to medical treatment of injured animals.
You can donate to RSPCA NSW via the Bushfire Appeal webpage.
Road trips matter
We exist to keep Australia moving. In light of the bushfires currently devastating so much of our country, this means more now than ever before. The ongoing bushfire emergency comes at a time of drought, declining populations, reduced visitation and a lack of funding and investment in regional Australia.
Just as NRMA's early founders believed in 1920, we understand the importance of road trips to Australia. Now road trips matter more than ever. Once fires are under control and impacted areas are safe, take the time to visit, stay, eat, drink and shop in our regional towns. It’s something we can all do.
That’s why this year we are focusing on bringing back the road trip by encouraging Australians to experience our amazing country and its unique regional and cultural experiences.
We're also going on a road trip tour across NSW and the ACT to mark our centenary and inviting the public to join us. We want to help bring issues to light, and give regional Australia a voice and a platform to bring about the positive change it needs.
We're also working on a longer-term plan to support the rebuilding and economic recovery of communities affected by the bushfires. More detail will follow soon.