Under current visa rules, backpackers are required to work for an least 88 days in rural areas, but there is no allowance for voluntary work and pay slips are required as proof the condition has been met.

French national Ben Giuffrida has previously told The Daily Advertiser he believed an overhaul of the visa conditions would have allowed him and fellow traveller Clothilde Gizardin - who were doing seasonal work in Tumbarumba before bushfires swept through - to remain in the area and help with the rebuilding efforts.

His pleas echo those of BlazeAid's Rhonda Butler.

Mrs Butler, who co-founded BlazeAid with her husband Kevin after their farm in Kilmore East, Victoria, was burned out in the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, has been pleading for an overhaul.

Mrs Butler she had previously put her case to politicians in a bid to win their backing.

"We've spoken to MPs about it. It just seems stupid not to utilise the backpackers," she said.

"We've discussed it before. Last year it was topical as well. This year, it's become even more needed. It just makes sense.

"It's ridiculous. Why shouldn't work like this count towards the 88 days?"

Mr Giuffrida and Ms Gizardin spent two weeks working in with BlazeAid in the area around Wauchope, after they had to evacuate from Tumbarumba and initially went to Sydney

Mr Giuffrida says amending these conditions slightly to allow "work" to include volunteering with a recognised charity like BlazeAid would see a lot more people stepping up to lend a hand.

"But if people can do it in their 88 days, it could be a really good thing for Australia. There are a lot of people here who are on tourist visas and could lend a hand, just to help get their days."

The Daily Advertiser has made several requests to the Department of Home Affairs for comment, but is yet to receive a reply.

The offices of Minister of Immigration, David Coleman, opposition spokesperson on immigration Kristina Keneally and Member for Riverina, Michael McCormack have also been approached for comment.