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Bushfire Stories

The Victorian bushfires changed people’s lives. It changed the way many people behave, relate to others, cope with change and importantly, how they think and feel. Your Bushfire Stories is designed to be a place for young people to share their experiences, ask questions and importantly, support other young people who have had their lives changed by the bushfires.

In 3000 characters or less tell us about your bushfire experience and what has helped you to begin to recover. You can also submit a piece of artwork or a poem to describe your bushfire experience. Please include your name and age with your story.

Please note

headspace recognises that sometimes people need immediate help and support. The headspace website cannot provide you with specific counselling, crisis services or support. If you need immediate assistance please see Getting Help or call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Who can submit a story?

  • Any young person aged between 12 and 25 who has had personal experience of the recent bushfires
  • Any young person who has indirectly (e.g. though media coverage) been affected by the bushfires

What kind of stories are we looking for?

  • Stories based on personal experience of the recent bushfires
  • How the bushfires have influenced and/or affected your mental health
  • What steps you have taken to overcome the recent challenges
  • What your message to other young people is to encourage them seek help and assistance if needed
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February 2009 Victorian 'Your Bushfire Space' was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund and has been developed in collaboration with the Victorian Department of Health

Your Stories

s, 22 VIC

At 20 I lost my home and friends in the black Saturday bushfires. My fiancé 21, and our 20 month old daughter are lucky enough to tell the tale. I r... more

Sheridan, 15 VIC

My name’s Sheridan, I’m 15 and I live in Kirkstall Victoria. I’m sure right about now your probably thinking to yourself, ‘What would she know about B... more

Claire, VIC

Early February 2009 the news of bushfires was startling real. We could smell it, taste it, the mountains surrounding the LaTrobe Valley crawled with t... more

headspace is funded by the Australian Government under the Promoting Better Mental Health - Youth Mental Health Initiative.