Bushfire support resources for South Western Sydney communities

South Western Sydney Primary Health Network has put together useful resources for individuals and communities in South Western Sydney in need of bushfire recovery assistance and support.

Resources for supporting children after bushfires

As part of Emerging Minds Community Trauma Toolkit, the ‘supporting children after bushfires’ resource pack is designed for educators and authority figures to assist them in supporting children’s mental health after trauma.

Mental health resources and support for health professionals, first responders and community

Phoenix Australia – Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health has developed a range of resources to support health professionals, first responders and community members affected by the bushfires.

Natural disaster and emergency primary health workforce response

RDN and partner organisations are coordinating a response to provide General Practice and primary health care workforce support to areas of NSW affected by natural disasters. 

We are seeking expressions of interest from healthcare professionals who can provide assistance and relief in communities.

There are two critical periods for workforce support. Firstly, the emergency response period (January and February) and secondly the recovery period (February through to December 2020). Your consideration of availability for both these periods is appreciated.

Mental health support measures announced for individuals affected by the bushfire crisis

The Australian Government has announced a new mental health support program for Australians affected by the bushfire crisis. The measure will ensure people have access to coordinated and tailored support they need to recover from the effects of the 2019–20 bushfires, including access to on the ground counselling and mental health support.

 

RACGP’s managing emergencies in general practice guide

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) managing emergencies in general practice guide aims to assist practices to prepare, respond and recover from disasters and emergencies in Australia.

Bushfire psychological preparation and recovery from the Australian Psychological Society

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) has put together a range of resources to help Australians prepare and recover from the threat of bushfire, including managing emotional distress and looking after children who have been affected by bushfires.

Updated Air Quality Index data

Air quality across NSW may be affected by extensive smoke from bushfires. To ensure your safety and the safety of your patients, refer to the Department of Planning, Industry & Environment’s Air Quality Index (AQI) data which is updated hourly.

Primary health disaster response information from Coordinare

Coordinare has provided tips and resources to assist organisations in preparing for, responding to and recovering from a disaster, including mental health resources and support for health professionals.

Beyond Blue’s advice for looking after yourself during and after a disaster

Beyond Blue has put together a list of mental health support services and advice for dealing with the emotional impact of a disaster, to assist individuals in bushfire-affected communities.