Department of Families Fairness and Housing Victoria

Speak to your GP and local council to find out what help is available.
Find out if you are eligible for the Personal Hardship Assistance Program.
Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 if you are worried about your mental health or the mental health of a loved one.

Support after natural disasters and emergencies

Natural disasters such as fires, floods and storms can significantly impact your life and the lives of those around you.

There's no time frame for recovery, but support and assistance are available to help you get back on track.

Speak to a GP and contact your local council to find out what is available for you.

To find your local:

GP, visit Health Direct's Find a health service.
council, visit Vic councils.

Support programs

If you experienced trauma, damage or loss due to the June 2021 storms and floods, you can access the Victorian Storm Recovery Support Program.

Alice, Wendy and Ernie accessed support after natural disasters. Reaching out provided them with someone to regularly talk with and advocate on their behalf.

Michelle helped Alice link up with services in her area.

Recovering after a storm Alices story video transcript (Word)

Melinda helped Ernie get things off his chest when he needed to.

Recovering after a bushfire Ernies story video transcript (Word)

Sam advocated for Wendy when she had to deal with insurance and clean ups.

Recovering after a storm Wendys story video transcript (Word)

You may also be eligible for the Personal Hardship Assistance Program.

Understanding the impacts of emergencies

People may experience a range of physical, mental, emotional and behavioural reactions following an emergency. For more information, visit BetterHealth's Trauma recovery services.

Clinical psychologists Rob Gordon and David Younger discuss recovery after emergencies and natural disasters.