Fire or life threatening emergencies: 000
Emergency Information: 13 3337
SES Emergency Assistance: 132 500
Some emergency services workers have compared the impact of a severe tropical cyclone to a war zone. Be prepared for a lot of structural and environmental damage.
Power and communications can be lost for hours, days or weeks. You may not be able to access your bank account and may need to rely on cash kept in your emergency kit.
Water, gas and sewage services may not be working. There could also be road and airport closures and loss of communications.
Food and fuel may be in short supply, or unavailable.
High levels of stress and trauma may also be felt in your community or family if there has been destruction, injuries or deaths, loss of services or isolation.
During this time, it is very important to look after your wellbeing. Refer to the wellbeing section below for tips and links to support organisations.
If your home has been damaged, there are a number of support services available for emergency accommodation, food and water.
If you need temporary emergency repairs to make your home safe, such as for a badly damaged roof or flooding, call the State Emergency Service on 132 500 to request assistance and/or report this to your local government.
Be aware that calls for assistance are prioritised to assist those most in need first so it might take several hours or even days before assistance may come.
Contact your insurance company to report any damage or loss as soon as you can. They will need to send an assessor to your property to process your claim. Depending on their advice, you may be able to begin repairs and any rebuilding. Check with your insurance company before you enter a contract with cleaning or repair contractors, to avoid additional bills.
If you are a tenant and have contents insurance contact your insurer, in addition to telling your real estate agent, owner, landlord or Department of Communities.
If you need emergency accommodation, check to see if this is covered in your insurance policy.
If you cannot remember the name of your insurance company or the details are not available, you can contact the Insurance Council of Australia on 1300 728 228.
Experiencing a tropical cyclone can be a traumatic experience. It is completely normal to feel psychological and emotional distress.
Most people will recover over time with the support of family and friends. However, after a crisis it is often easier to talk to someone who is not involved in the situation and is trained to listen.
