‘If you have been told to leave, go’: Victorian premier declares state of disaster in multiple areas as bushfires burn out of control

Disaster declaration issued for 18 local government areas and an alpine resort as man, woman and child remain unaccounted forFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastJacinta Allan has declared a state of disaster in multiple areas as the Victoria battles an escalating bushfire crisis that has destroyed multiple properties, prompted evacuations and razed more than 50,000 hectares of bushland.The declaration, which applies to 18 fire-affected local government areas as well as the Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, was made in the early hours of Saturday in response to danger to life or property in the affected areas. Continue reading...