Disaster evacuation and recovery centres
The Queensland Department of Communities is responsible for supporting the recovery of communities affected by disaster and helping individuals and families to restore their emotional, social, economic and physical well-being at this time.
At the time of a disaster, the Department of Communities coordinates the delivery of recovery services to disaster affected people. These services are provided in partnership with other government and non-government agencies that each have a specific role in assisting individuals, families and communities affected by the disaster. Evacuation Centres and Community Recovery Centres are two separate services provided at this time.
Evacuation Centres
Evacuation Centres are set up as required following disasters. They provide a place of temporary refuge for people evacuated from homes in the vicinity of the disaster and for people who may be travelling through the affected area but are unable to continue.
The Evacuation Centres provide people affected by disaster with immediate basic needs such as food, clothing, blankets, shelter, information and personal support, as well as other practical assistance.
People affected by a disaster can formally register with the Australian Red Cross at these centres. The information is provided to the National Registration and Inquiry System so that concerned families and friends can confirm the whereabouts of disaster affected people.
Evacuation Centres are short-term in nature and are closed as soon as alternate arrangements are established.
Community Recovery Centres
The Department of Communities supports and coordinates the delivery of services to help families, individuals and communities recover following a disaster.
Community Recovery Centres may be established to provide information or services that meet the medium and longer-term assistance needs of people affected by disaster.
They offer a range of services from the one location, including financial assistance, counselling, personal support, information and referrals to other services.
Services offered from Community Recovery Centres are designed to help people resume a normal life as quickly as possible.
The type of advice provided in a Community Recovery Centre could include information and advice on insurance; the removal of debris, the type and availability of temporary accommodation and rebuilding a home. Staff in the recovery centre could also work with community members to rebuild or strengthen community links and broader supports.
The Community Recovery Centre will provide information on the financial assistance available as a ‘safety net’ for families and individuals affected by a disaster. The financial assistance provides a contribution to families and individuals who are uninsured and not able to meet the additional costs of replacing or repairing essential household goods and/or their owner occupied residence without government assistance.
Further information
For further information at the time of a disaster please contact the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349