(UTV|AUSTRALIA) – The world has watched with horror as bushfires have torn across Australia, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
The blazes have razed almost 2,000 homes, and killed at least 25 people and hundreds of millions of animals since they began in September.
People in Australia and abroad, including politicians and celebrities, have been eager to find ways to offer assistance and support.
But authorities have warned that some kinds of help can actually be a hindrance and overwhelm fire-affected communities.
Here are some of the ways that the world has responded to Australia’s bushfire crisis, and what help those responding to the crisis say is needed.
Creative fundraising
Many people have made financial donations to help with the response to the crisis.
One fundraiser for fire services in New South Wales (NSW), launched by Australian comedian Celeste Barber, raised more than A$20m (£10.6m; $13m) in just 48 hours. It’s now topped A$30m, with donations from more than 1.1 million people.
Big business in Australia has also pledged significant contributions.
Some of the biggest sums offered to the relief efforts have come from celebrities.
US singer Pink, Australian pop star Kylie Minogue, Oscar-winning actress Nicole Kidman, British singer Elton John and Australian actor Chris Hemsworth are among those to make major donations.
(Agencies)