Australia is in the middle of a nationwide bushfire emergency, the worst in living memory. Fires are raging across the country, leaving nothing but ash and destruction in their wake.

These wildfires have claimed at least 24 lives and over 500 million animals have died in the brutal flames. 16 million acres of land and over 1,300 homes having already been destroyed, but this tragedy is just beginning. The bushfires are predicted to continue for months, as Australias summer has only just begun. This is truly a terrifying time for Australians all over the country.

The brave men and women working and volunteering in Fire and Rescue services throughout Australia are constantly putting their lives at risk as they battle the blaze of these horrendous bushfires. They are doing everything they can to manage the fires, putting them out as quickly as they can but they still have many long and dangerous days ahead of them. One firefighter, Gary, told author Matthew Battles about his experience, writing:

My emotions are always only millimetres from the surface. I cry at the drop of a hat. I keep crying because we cannot save all of the houses and people.

The Muslim community all over the world is coming together to stand with our brave brothers and sisters in Australia, who are putting themselves in front of the blaze to protect Australia and its people.

Penny Appeal Australia is putting together Firefighter Packs to help support the firefighters who are protecting Australia. These Firefighter Packs include essentials like water, sunscreen, burn protection, hydrating liquids and throat lozenges to keep help these men and women safe and comfortable as they battle the blaze.

Donate to our Australian Bushfire Emergency to stand with Australia and help firefighters as they continue to quench the raging wildfires.