Recover after a Disaster

After a disaster has struck, it is important to stay safe: 

  • Do not return to your home until advised by the authorities. When advised, use the recommended route. 
  • Take precautions when venturing outside.
  • Watch out for wildlife that's been displaced, such as snakes and insects.
  • Stay away from fallen powerlines and report loss of power, fallen power lines and trees on power lines to Ergon Energy.
  • Check on neighbours and those who require additional support
  • Keep listening to the radio for advice
  • Don't go sightseeing
  • Check your home for damage and shut off any damaged utilities.
  • Do not eat or drink anything that may be contaminated

Key Recovery Contacts

  • Police/Fire/Ambulance (life threatening emergencies) - 000
  • State Emergency Service - 132 500
  • Local Disaster Coordination Centre (if activated) - 1300 652 659
  • Council’s Customer Service Centre - 07 4932 9000
  • Community Recovery Line - 1800 173 349
  • Australian Red Cross – 1800 733 111
  • Ergon Energy – 13 22 96
  • Translator Interpreter Services -13 14 50
  • National Relay Service 1300 555 727
  • Rural Aid - 1300 175 594

For lost or found pets, contact the Rockhampton Regional Council Animal Management Centre - 07 4936 8555

 

Free Legal Aid

People impacted by disasters and wild weather in Queensland can get free disaster-related legal help from Legal Aid Queensland.

For help with legal issues stemming from a disaster, call Legal Aid Queensland’s Disaster Legal Help Line on 1300 527 700 for help with problems such as insurance claim issues or refusals, temporary housing issues, financial hardship, family law issues and more.

Here are some top tips for managing property damage and other issues following a disaster:

  • If your insurance claim is refused, you can have the decision reviewed by the insurer and then by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority. If you have questions, call 1300 527 700 for legal advice.
  • If your claim is accepted, check the scope of repair works covers the damage to your property.
  • Remember the scope of works doesn’t have to be perfect before work starts - you can add more damage if it’s found during repairs. If you don’t understand the scope of works, get advice.
  • If you are considering accepting a cash settlement for your claim, please get legal advice first. • Be wary of doorknockers offering to help with repairs or insurance.
  • Apply for any state and Commonwealth assistance you qualify for. • Ask your banks, lenders, utility providers and local councils for financial hardship help if you need it.
  • Lodge claims with your insurer as soon as possible.
  • Take photos and videos of the damaged property.

 

Financial Assistance

There are many different types of financial assistance available to those who have been directly impacted by a disaster. 

Contact the Community Recovery Line (1800 173 349),  Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment Line (180 22 66), or visit Council's Emergency Dashboard for up to date information on financial assistance available to those directly impacted by a disaster.

Contact your chosen insurance company with any enquiries related to your cover. Should you have any further enquiries, the Insurance Council of Australia  (ICA) is the representative body of the general insurance industry in Australia.

Rural Aid Australia

Rural Aid | Supporting Farmers & Rural Communities

Rural aid provides counselling services and community programs to support Australian farmers and communities before, during and after disasters such as drought, flood and fire. For further information and to access the services available, visit https://www.ruralaid.org.au/services-provided/

  • Assistance Programs and Packages | 1300 327 624
  • Complimentary Mental Health and Wellbeing Services | 1300 175 594

Community Assistance and Volunteering

Donations

Please use current donation services within the community such as The Salvation Army, Lifeline, St Vincent de Paul Society, The Smith Family or Givit.

Volunteering

If you would like to volunteer to help in disaster recovery, please contact Volunteering Queensland (1800 994 100 or emergencyvol@volunteeringqld.gov.au).

Coping Emotionally

Disasters can have a significant impact on our emotional state. It is important to remain calm so you can control your fears and actions.

  • Stop what you are doing and take a few slow, deep breaths.
  • Focus on your feelings and any irrational thoughts you may have. Talk calmly about them with trusted friends or family.
  • Focus on what practical tasks you and your family can do.
  • Keep children up to date and provide reassurance.
  • When the danger has passed, check to see if children or others with support needs are still distressed and talk to them about their experience.

If you are not coping emotionally, contact your local health service or community support groups for support, or explore our links to other resources.

  

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