A donation of $1m AUD (£450,000) to launch an appeal for those affected by the bushfires in Victoria, Australia has been made by the Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Robert Doyle.

The City of Melbourne and the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation have donated AUD800,000 (£360,000) in cash and AUD200,000 (£90,000) in services to charities assisting families affected by the bushfires.

“Now it is the time for us to rally to support people who are suffering by providing as much care and support as we can,” said Lord Mayor Robert Doyle.

The Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation was established in 1923 and aims to develop community philanthropy in Melbourne and to help those in need.

Individuals and companies wishing to make a donation to the fund should contact the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation at www.lmcf.org.au.