The alliance has been formed by the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC), Paralympics Australia, Commonwealth Games Australia and The Australian Sports Foundation.

It is the first time the four organisations have partnered, with the aim to collaborate to raise and distribute funds to replace damaged equipment and offer financial support to help affected families and communities.

“Sport is at the heart of our communities and many sports clubs themselves in our towns will need assistance to recover,” said Matt Carroll, AOC chief executive.

“The Olympic sports will be working to support clubs, schools and families.

“Restoring the enjoyment of sport is a significant step in rebuilding community spirit and the Olympic movement is ready to step up and help.”

The four organisations say that in bushfire affected areas, infrastructure and buildings will usually be covered by local councils or insurance.

However, equipment, uniforms and memberships to sporting clubs for those families who have been financially impacted will not be covered.

It is hoped that the funding received will be put towards these practical and essential items.

The organisations estimate hundreds of sports clubs and associations have been devastated by fire with athletes and clubs now faced with the task of replacing sporting facilities and equipment.

Through this collaboration and with the support of Olympic, Commonwealth Games and Paralympic athletes, it is hoped people and businesses will donate so local areas can regenerate through sport and help local communities heal quickly.

“The Australian Sports Foundation and our Alliance Partners know the important role that sport plays in breaking down barriers and creating a sense of wellbeing,” said Patrick Walker, Australian Sports Foundation chief executive.

“This is particularly important after a natural disaster, as sport brings communities together, in turn helping the recovery and healing process.

“Through this initiative we will give communities the kit and equipment they need to get their sporting teams and clubs back up and running and so speed their return to normality.”

Bushfires in south-east Australia reportedly left 33 people dead, while around 18 million hectares were burned.

Around 3,500 homes have been destroyed during the fires.

“We have seen the impact of the recent bushfires on many of the grassroots clubs from our member sports, and also our past and present Commonwealth Games team members,” said Craig Phillips, Commonwealth Games Australia chief executive.

“We stand ready to assist in whatever way we can to help these communities and the individuals and families affected rebuild and return to participating in the sports they love.”

All donations are tax deductible and will be distributed to affected sports clubs and communities.

More details and donations can be made here