Council says the scale of damage was immense, with one life lost, 217 homes destroyed and 405 km of roads damaged.
More than 500 sheds were also lost, thousands of livestock and animals killed and private fencing losses were estimated at more than $120 million.
Murrindindi Shire Mayor Damien Gallagher said the six-month mark might be difficult for some people, and should be met with care, respect and continued support.
“For some people, six months on is not just a date on the calendar. It can bring back the shock of what happened, the grief of what was lost, and the reality of how much work still lies ahead,” Cr Gallagher said.
“There is no right way to recover. People are rebuilding in different circumstances, at different stages and under different pressures.”
A major focus for council is advocacy for those across the shire who need it most.
“Murrindindi does not want special treatment. We are asking for recovery support that matches the impact our communities have experienced,” Cr Gallagher said.
“Our community was at the front line of this disaster. It should not be at the back of the queue when it comes to recovery.”
Alongside this advocacy, council is also seeking financial support for the repair of the rail trail, which it believes would be a major economic draw card off the back of the bushfire.
It is also calling for greater support for environmental recovery, financial aid for farmers and businesses, and an increase in mental health assistance available to the community.
“Recovery is not finished because six months have passed,” Cr Gallagher said.
“For many people, this is the point where the outside attention has moved on, but the hard work, the decisions and the emotional load are still very real.
“Council will continue to walk alongside our communities, keep listening, and keep pushing for Murrindindi needs.”
Council’s recovery team is working with communities throughout recovery, helping people find information, connect with services and navigate rebuilding.
Community members can contact the Recovery Team at the Alexandra Customer Service Centre on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and the Yea Recovery Hub at Yea Library on Tuesdays and Thursdays, both between 10am and 3pm.
Support is also available through the Emergency Recovery Support Program on 1800 560 760.
Anyone needing urgent emotional support can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
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