Disaster Relief Assistance: Guidelines on Receiving Aid and Offering Assistance following a Natural Catastrophe
In the wake of natural disasters such as floods, bushfires, and storms, Australians can find solace in the range of support resources available to them. These resources cover financial aid, mental health services, and local community support.
Financial Aid
The Australian Government provides disaster payments and recovery allowances for declared disasters. The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment is a lump sum payment [2][3], while the Disaster Recovery Allowance offers income support for loss of income [2]. These payments can be claimed via myGov.
State and territory governments also offer targeted grants and financial assistance. For example, NSW's Housing Support Package offers temporary accommodation and grants for repair and relocation expenses [3], while Victoria has various recovery programs with financial support options [4]. Emergency relief support is also available from organizations like the Australian Red Cross for those not eligible for government payments [2].
Mental Health Services
Health services include access to general practitioners, pharmacies, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services for medical and mental health care [1]. Mental health support is part of the overall post-disaster health management, often coordinated by state recovery agencies such as Emergency Recovery Victoria [1][4].
24/7 nurse advice lines like healthdirect (1800 022 222) provide immediate support and can connect callers to virtual GP consultations [1]. Beyond Blue also has a guide on how to look after mental health following a disaster, and their support hotline is 1300 22 4636 [6].
Local Community Support & Recovery Centres
Recovery hubs and service centres are set up in affected communities to help people access government payments and recovery services locally [5]. Emergency services like the State Emergency Service (SES) provide assistance during severe weather events, and local radio broadcasts keep communities informed [1]. One-stop concierge and referral services help tailor recovery support to individual needs, including connecting people to accommodation and mental health services [3].
Additional Resources
For rapid response and 24-hour assistance from accredited plumbers, electricians, and locksmiths for common home repair emergencies, call RACV Emergency Home Assist on 1300 638 108.
Red Cross supports communities and manages disaster recovery programs in areas affected by floods, cyclones, and disasters. They also help communities strengthen their disaster resilience. Red Cross launches appeals for specific disasters or accepts one-off donations or regular donations to support their work more broadly [7].
If you require emergency assistance during a natural disaster, you can contact your state emergency services. Reasons to call include extensive damage to your home or that a fallen tree is preventing you from entering or leaving your property [8].
GIVIT captures all donation offers online, where donors can see and give exactly what's needed, such as clothing, toiletries, mobile phones, groceries, school supplies, furniture, and household goods [9].
Lifeline provides confidential crisis support 24 hours a day for those experiencing emotional distress after a natural disaster. The contact number is 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14 [10].
Overall, Australians affected by natural disasters can access a coordinated system of financial aid, health and mental health care, and community recovery support through federal, state, and local programs designed to assist individuals and families in their recovery journey [1][2][3][4][5].
