Chris Hemsworth has pledged $1million towards helping firefighters and residents affected by the Australian bushfires.

The 36-year-old actor, who is best known for playing Thor in the Marvel Universe franchise, announced his donation on Instagram on Tuesday.

‘As you’re well aware, the bushfires in Australia have caused massive devastation. They continue to burn, there’s warmer weather on its way, we’re really still in the thick of it here and there’s plenty of challenging times ahead,’ he began.

‘What we need is your support and your donations. I’m going to put forward a million dollars and was hoping that all of you could contribute in any way, shape or form.

‘Every dollar counts. That money goes directly to the firefighters, the people on the frontline, the people who have suffered, the communities that have taken a hit and who are in desperate need of our support.’

He added: ‘I want to say a huge “thank you” to everyone who’s sent all their well-wishes and donations already. It’s greatly appreciated here in Australia.

‘Dig deep, lots of love and we’ll keep pushing forwards. Cheers.’

Chris accompanied his video with a lengthy caption, which read: ‘Hi everyone. Like you, I want to support the fight against the bushfires here in Australia.

‘My family and I are contributing a million dollars. Hopefully you guys can chip in too.

‘Every penny counts so whatever you can muster up is greatly appreciated. In my bio I’ve added links to support the firefighters, organisations and charities who are working flat out to provide support and relief during this devastating and challenging time.

‘[I am] beyond appreciative to everyone around the world for their well-wishes and donations. It really does make a difference, so dig deep! Love ya.’

Chris is married to Spanish actress Elsa Pataky, with whom he shares three children: daughter India Rose, seven, and twin sons Tristan and Sasha, five.

The family live in a mansion in Byron Bay, NSW, worth an estimated $20million.

Chris’ pledge comes after Celeste Barber’s global fundraiser to help the firefighters smashed its latest goal of $40million earlier on Tuesday.

As bushfires persisted through light rain across south east Australia on Tuesday, the online fund – which was launched on Friday – was nudging $41million and showing no signs of slowing down.

Celeste, a comedian known for her parodies of celebrities’ Instagram posts, has so far attracted more than one million donations from around the world.

‘It’s just hit me, it’s so much money… it’s incredible,’ Celeste said on social media after her campaign had reached $36million.

The money raised will go to the registered charity NSW Rural Fire Service and Brigades Donations Fund. Pledged donations are due between 15 and 90 days.

Australia’s bushfire disaster has attracted several high-profile and corporate donations, including $500,000 from U.S. singer Pink, another half-million dollars from Australian actress Nicole Kidman and her husband, Keith Urban, plus $5million from the billionaire Packer family.

Artists are starting to organise charity events to raise more funds, with award-winning singer Tones and I announcing plans for a Melbourne concert on January 28 to benefit the RFS, Victoria’s Country Fire Association and the Red Cross.

The bushfires have so far claimed at least 25 lives, destroyed 2,000 homes and killed approximately 500 million animals.