TASMANIANS have been warned to be wary of fake fund-raising efforts and businesses profiteering from the bushfire disaster.
Consumer Protection Minister Nick McKim said there had been one report of a business charging excessive prices for grocery items.
"It is a sad fact that while most people in the community are very generous and caring, a tiny minority will exploit others when they are most in need," Mr McKim said.
Donations to the official Tasmanian Bushfires 2013 Appeal continue to pour in.
As of 3pm yesterday, the Red Cross, which is administering the fund, said more than 8200 donors had contributed $1.4 million, up from $900,000 the day before.
The tally does not include pledges from the Commonwealth Bank, Westpac and Qantas, which have pledged $100,000 each, or the $250,000 each from the South Australian and West Australian governments.
Falls Festival organisers have pledged $10,000, a week after holding a successful event at Marion Bay, near the worst-hit area.
Meanwhile, Housing Tasmania has received 63 expressions of interest from bushfire victims for financial assistance.
Up to $8875 is available for temporary living assistance, $5600 for essential household goods not covered by insurance, and another $8875 for repair or replacement to assist with re-establishing their home.
These grants will be needs- tested based on income, assets, age, residential and insurance status in line with eligibility for the Private Rental Assistance Scheme.
This is separate from the one-off cash payments offered by the state and federal governments.
Tasmania's Council of Social Services welcomed the donations and assistance for bushfire victims.
