The Bourke Street Fund
On 20 January 2017, tragedy struck in the heart of Melbourne. Innocent lives were lost, and families were devastated, due to a senseless act.
Victorians showed remarkable courage, and came to the aid of family, friend, and stranger. And as we heal, Victorians can continue to help those who have been most affected.
The Victorian Government set up a fund for the families affected by the incident. It pledged an initial $100,000 and said anyone who wanted to make a donation can do so. If you have any general enquiries regarding the fund please call 1800 226 226.
The fund will complement other services and support provided by the Victorian Government particularly for those who were injured or who witnessed the Bourke Street tragedy.
The attack in Bourke Street has far reaching impact on the community. If you, your family or people you know are having difficulty coping with the event and its aftermath support is available to help you deal with what you are feeling by contacting 1800 226 226.
How to donate
For people wishing to donate to this fund you can do so by donating to:
Credit card
Special thank you to Westpac and Stripe who have provided services to support the Fund at no charge.
Bank transfer
Westpac Banking Corporation
Name of account: Bourke Street Fund
BSB: 033 009
Account Number: 668251
International transfers
Westpac Banking Corporation
Name of account: Bourke Street Fund
BSB: 033 009
Account Number: 668251
Swift code WPACAU2S
Please feel free to identify yourself through your transfer.
You can also call 1800 226 226 for advice on how to donate.
What the fund will be used for
The fund will be used to provide financial support to the immediate families of the deceased.
This might mean providing funding for people’s immediate and longer term care and support needs and could include funeral costs, psychological support and care needs depending on the family.
An Independent Panel will guide decisions about the fund. At this stage, any money donated to the fund will not be tax deductible.
Beware of scammers
There are reports of people trying to take advantage of your generosity by telling you that they are collecting on behalf of the fund.
The fund has been established by the Victorian Government to support the victims and their families.
We will never call you and ask you for donations. This site is the official place to donate.
If you or someone you know receives a call like this, hang up and notify Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Scamwatch (www.scamwatch.gov.au).
Find out more about scams on the Consumer Affairs Victoria website.
Support available
It is normal to have strong reactions following a distressing or frightening event, but these should begin to reduce after a few weeks.
People can experience a range of physical, mental, emotional and behavioural reactions.
There are many things you can do to cope with and recover from trauma.
Seek professional help if you don’t begin to return to normal after three or four weeks.
Further support around trauma.
Where to get help
- VicEmergency Hotline - 1800 226 226
- Victim Support Hotline 1800 819 817
- Red Cross Register, Find, Reunite 1800 727 077
General telephone counselling services
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- GriefLine 1300 845 745
- BeyondBlue 1300 224 636
Government agencies
Transport Accident Commission (TAC)
The first thing you need to do is lodge a claim with the TAC. It doesn't matter whose fault the accident was, the TAC is here to help you recover from your injuries and get your life back on track after an accident.
Find information on who can claim, how to claim with the TAC and how the TAC can help you if you've been in an accident.
WorkSafe Victoria
Are you an injured worker? Follow the worker journey to find out how to make a claim and what you can do to get back to work quicker.
Are you an employer? Follow the employer journey to find out what to do if one of your workers gets injured, and how you can help them return to work.
Visit the WorkSafe Victoria website.
Public vigil
Read about the public vigil for the victims and those affected by the tragic events in Bourke Street Mall on Friday 20 January 2017 that was held on Monday 23 January at Fed Square.
Share your condolences
We invite you to share your condolences for the victims.