Natural disasters

Natural disasters are common events in Australia’s vast climates and often include fires, floods and storms, tropical cyclones, droughts and earthquakes.

Without warning, you can find yourself needing assistance and support following a natural disaster. When the government declares a state or federal emergency, a number of financial supports become available.In larger disasters, a localised disaster hub may be established where you can go to find out what assistance and support is available.

Financial Assistance

Services Australia – search for assistance available declared emergencies.

Australian Red Cross – provides on the ground assistance following a disaster and provides tools and resources to support you in preparing, responding and recovering from a disaster.

The Salvation Army – also provides on the ground assistance following a disaster.

Local emergency relief services – search for your local emergency assistance services to see what assistance they are providing at the time of a disaster.

Victorian State Government – provides the Personal Hardship, Emergency Relief and Emergency Re-establishment assistance programs. Information on further assistance during an emergency can be found here.

National Debt Helpline or Better Place Australia Financial Counsellors – you can also speak to a free and confidential financial counsellor for support in managing debts following a disaster. 

Local Government – following a disaster, local councils are often to hub of information and appoint disaster managements groups. See your local council for further details.

Relief and Recovery

Relief and recovery is managed by local councils. If you are directly impacted by severe weather or flooding, please contact your local council for support. You can search for your local council on the Know Your Council  website. If you are in immediate danger, call 000. Learn more about relief and recovery support by clicking here.

Start Your Insurance Claim

Home insurance (building insurance) covers the cost of rebuilding or repairing your home when something goes wrong. Homeowners often bundle their home insurance into a combined 'home and contents' policy to cover both home and belongings. Your insurer must handle your claim efficiently and fairly. Follow these steps to lodge a claim.