A number of charities are accepting donations and help for the victims of Japan quake-tsunami disaster. However it's important to exercise due diligence before making a donation to any organisation.

Following are the details. Keep coming back for an updated list.

Save The Children: Mobilising to provide immediate humanitarian relief in the shape of emergency health care and provision of non-food items and shelter. Call 1800 76 00 11 or visit www.savethechildren.org.au

Red Cross: Donors can contribute to the relief efforts by calling 1800 811 700 from anywhere in Australia or donate to the Red Cross over the counter at all Commonwealth Bank branches as well as via sending a cheque or money order to: Red Cross, GPO Box 2957, Melbourne VIC 8060. Donate online at www.redcross.org.au.

Mercy Corps: Mercy Corp has not sent its own team to Japan but it set up a donation fund for its partner, Peace Winds Japan, and its emergency assistance on the ground. To make a donation, call 888-747-7440 or visit the website here.

Medical Teams International: Medical Teams International is also on alert and staying closely in touch with its nine partners along the coast and in Japan. To donate to Medical Teams International, visit www.medicalteams.org.

World Vision Canada: World Vision is among the first organisations to begin relief work by distributing emergency supplies and sending highly-trained staff to assess and respond to the most urgent needs. To donate, visit www.worldvision.ca

Medecins Sans Frontiers: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international humanitarian aid organisation that provides emergency medical assistance to populations in danger in more than 60 countries. MSF workers are already on ground in Japan, assessing the situation. For more visit www.msf.org

DFAT: Assistance helpline: +61 2 6261 3305. DFAT hotline for Australians concerned about family and friends: 1300 555 135. Visit www.dfat.gov.au