The Victorian Government extends its deepest sympathies – and the thoughts of all Victorians – to those affected by the devastating earthquakes across Türkiye and Syria.

Homes and livelihoods have been destroyed in this tragedy, and many thousands have lost loved ones as the scale of the earthquakes’ devastation continues to grow.

This disaster will be felt particularly strongly by Victoria’s large communities from Türkiye and Syria – know we share in your grief, and stand ready to support those affected.

That’s why we’ll contribute $1 million to humanitarian relief efforts on the ground where they’re needed most – providing immediate shelter and food items to those who have been injured and evacuated in the disaster.

In this time of mourning and grief for so many, every contribution counts – and we’ll continue to work with the Commonwealth wherever possible to support relief efforts.

To show our solidarity with the people of Türkiye and Syria, and their families and friends who call Victoria home, public buildings in Melbourne’s CBD will be lit up in white on Friday evening.

Australians in need of emergency consular assistance should contact the Australian Government’s 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Quote attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews

“This disaster has destroyed many thousands of lives and homes in Türkiye and Syria – and the support of every Victorian is with affected communities, and with our state’s large and proud Turkish and Syrian communities.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Colin Brooks

“This is an anxious and distressing time for families from Türkiye and Syria who call Victoria home. We want them to know we stand with them, and we stand ready to provide support to our friends in the region.”