Council Welcomes Mental Health Funding for Natimuk Primary School

Published on 05 February 2026

Horsham Rural City Council has welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement, made on 4 February 2026, of new funding to support the mental health and wellbeing of students and staff at Natimuk Primary School following the January bushfires.

The funding is part of a $2 million statewide package announced by the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, providing additional mental health and wellbeing support to public schools in communities most impacted by recent bushfires.

Mayor Cr Brian Klowss said the funding recognises the broader impact bushfires can have on families, children and school communities.

“Events like bushfires can be distressing for children and young people, particularly when they disrupt families and local communities,” Cr Klowss said. “It’s important that schools have access to appropriate wellbeing supports to help students feel safe, supported and able to focus on learning.”

The funding will be delivered as a top‑up to the school’s existing Schools Mental Health Fund and can be used to provide trauma‑informed support, as well as disaster, grief and loss programs aligned with the Victorian Government’s Recovery and Resilience Model for schools.

A full list of schools receiving funding and further information is available at www.vic.gov.au/mental-health-and-wellbeing-support-bushfire-affected-schools