
Our thoughts go out to everyone affected by the recent bushfires across the country and we acknowledge all of those who are working hard, either in a professional or volunteer capacity, to respond to the fires.
Below is some information from Alliance members and the health sector that may be helpful to anybody living or working in fire-affected communities. This includes specific resources or information for practitioners, general health advice, and messages of support.
The Alliance also strongly recognises the link between climate change and the severity of extreme weather events. We continue to call for the creation of a National Climate and Health Strategy and for urgent action reduce emissions. The position statement can be viewed here.
General resources and information
National Rural Health Alliance – Rural and remote mental health help sheet
Australian Nursing & Midwifery Federation - Bushfire disaster information
Australian Medical Association - New health threats from escalating bushfire crisis
CRANAplus Psychological Support Line - open 24/7 to the rural and remote health workforce and their families - 1800 805 391
Mental health
Australian Psychological Society – Recovering from bushfires
Australian Psychological Society – Preparing children for the threat of bushfires
Australian Psychological Society – Preparing for bushfires
Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network – Taking care of your mental health and wellbeing this New Year
Beyond Blue - Looking after yourself after a disaster
Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health - Coping with the Impact of Bushfire
Black Dog Institute - Coping with the stress of the bushfires
Resources for specific groups or areas
Murray Primary Health Network – Bushfire information and support
HESTA - Bushfire support information for members
How to help
SBS News - Here's how you can help the victims of Australia's devastating bushfire crisis
Hands on Health Australia - East Gippsland bushfires - can you help?
Smoke and air quality
Optometry Australia - What to do when smoke gets in your eyes
Centre for Air pollution, energy and health Research - Bushfire smoke factsheet
Australian National University - How to protect yourself and others from bushfire smoke
Social services
ACOSS - Getting Help, Helping or Getting Prepared during the 2019/2020 Bushfire Emergency
Department of Human Services - Bushfires
Communications
ACCAN - Telco bushfire response
Food safety
Food Standards Australia New Zealand - Food safety in an emergency