Helping you recover after an emergency

Many Coraki residents lost phone and internet access during the floods.(ABC North Coast: Miranda Saunders)

Living through a natural disaster or emergency can be a terrifying, anxious, and heartbreaking experience.

But once the emergency passes, there will be new challenges.

Recovery after a disaster is different for everyone, and dealing with the physical, emotional and mental toll of trauma is a process that can take months, sometimes years.

Residents in the Northern Rivers region of NSW whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged during unprecedented floods in early 2022 know this all too well.

Lismore resident Kerry Walker said it’s the seemingly endless struggle that is taking the biggest toll.

"Even if it clears up…Lismore has this ongoing problem, which seems to be getting worse," Ms Walker said.

"It's the long-term future of not really knowing how to deal with it."

Sarah Mills is from Coffs Harbour, and volunteered in the flood damaged towns of Woodburn and Coraki.

She said recovery took its toll on residents.

"Their mental health has really started to deteriorate," she said.

"Obviously, in the first few days you're sort of running on adrenaline then reality starts to set in… [and] you realise how much work there is to do”

In early February 2022, eight homes were destroyed, and more than 50,000 hectares of bush and farmland were torched in Southern WA.

A man and a woman stand amidst the ruins of a farm destroyed by a bushfire. — Tim and Shannon Hardingham survey the damage of a bushfire in Corrigin, six months after the blaze.(ABC Midwest & Wheatbelt: Sam McManus)

Tim and Shannon Hardingham faced a long road to recovery, with unexpected costs and challenges.

"I think it's probably been the hardest six months we've had on the farm," Mr Hardingham said.

"The single biggest cost that is shocking to us is the asbestos clean-up, which we've been quoted around a quarter of a million dollars to clean up."

Hester resident Tracey Barnett said the mental health impact of the disaster has been significant, with anxiety building as the summer months approach.

"We're feeling better as time goes on, but at the same time, six months on is, 'OK, get back to me in 12 months when we're in the heat of summer again,' and I'm probably going to be freaking out.”

Here are some tips on how you can begin the rebuilding process, and links to resources that can help you along the way.

Returning to your home

Don't return to the disaster affected area until the all-clear has been given by emergency services.
Before returning home, stock up on essentials like fuel, food and water.
Withdraw cash where possible, as ATM’s in the affected area could be down.
If you believe your house is affected, make sure you have appropriate clothing including boots and a hard-wearing shirt and pants.
Don't enter your home, even if it looks unscathed, until officials say you can.
Be aware of hazards like hotspots and embers, snakes and spiders, fallen power lines, sagging ceilings and electrical faults, depending on the nature of the disaster.
During a flood, sewerage overflow is expected, so assume anything touched by wastewater is contaminated. Wear protective equipment, do not expose broken skin or cuts to dirty water, mud or silt, and wash your hands regularly.
Check that power, internet, water, gas and sewerage systems are functioning. You may need official safety checks (from council, power providers, utility companies etc)
Do not switch anything back on if there is any sign of structural damage.
Check in on your neighbours, and once phone lines are restores let your loved ones know that you are OK and contactable.

Handling insurance

The Insurance Hotline can help if you can't find your insurance details, on 1800 734 621.
If your home is affected, take photos of any damage to your property, vehicles, livestock, equipment, and any damaged infrastructure like power poles in your area.
Do not start repairing or moving things unless you must for safety purposes.
If you can safely stop further damage from occurring, do so but take photos before and after for your insurer.
Only use licensed or registered tradespeople.
Write down details of injuries, illness, or any medical assistance you received.
Takes note of periods that you were unable to work, as you may be able to claim insurance for loss of income.
Obtain three written quotes where possible for insurance purposes.

Useful services

National Emergency Management Agency

Help for people affected by disasters
Recover Connect service to link you to help available in your area
Information on how to help and volunteer
Lists of local recovery projects

Coping after a crisis

The Red Cross has provided a range of guidance for people who've experienced a disaster
Practical help on returning home after a disaster
A step-by-step list including contacting your insurer and cleaning up safely
Advice for those suffering from short and long-term stress
Listen to After the Disaster, a ABC podcast series about the phases of recovery

Payments from the Federal Government

Information on disaster payments if you're in an affected area
Payment and service finder

Want to donate?

Givit takes your donations and distributes them where they're needed
Don't drop off physical donations unless you're asked to — the best way to help is by giving money
These charities are registered and helping with disaster relief and recovery
Donate money and not physical items, unless asked, or charities can become overwhelmed
Check out ABC Gives or Disaster Relief Australia for more donation options

Want to volunteer?