Victoria, Australia - January 18, 2026 Humane World for Animals Australia has deployed a team to assist local wildlife carers overwhelmed by animals affected by heatwaves and bushfires across the state. The team is supporting Red Box Wildlife Shelter in Elphinstone and Animal Abbey in Faraday, both inundated with animals suffering from burns, dehydration, and heat stress. Flying foxes, wombats, and kangaroos are among those receiving urgent care. The team is helping bottle-feed orphans, clean cages, and rescue and transport injured wildlife for treatment. Programs director Evan Quartermain, part of the disaster response team, said: “Wildlife carers throughout the state are making an heroic effort to care for the staggering number of animals impacted by the fires, many working literally around the clock to treat animals in need at the moment. In addition to the countless animals suffering burns, smoke inhalation and dehydration, there are thousands of flying foxes who have been dropping from trees in colonies impacted by the recent heatwaves. As food sources become scarce and wildlife become weaker, we could sadly see a rise in both wildlife casualties and deaths. Many wildlife carers were already at capacity, yet they are still on the front lines to help animals suffering during these terrible events—they really do need all the help they can get and we are proud to be supporting them and the animals who need our attention.” Victoria has declared a State of Emergency as multiple bushfires burn out of control, compounding an already critical situation following extreme heatwaves and a mass starvation event. Humane World for Animals Australia continues to provide disaster relief and long-term support to reduce suffering and help communities recover.