Fire or life threatening emergencies: 000
Emergency Information: 13 3337
SES Emergency Assistance: 132 500
Experiencing an earthquake can be frightening. You and others around you may be injured or in a state of shock. Your home or workplace may be damaged and you may have difficulty contacting loved ones.
The earthquake may have caused other hazards such as loose debris, unsafe roads, exposed live electrical wiring and gas leaks, contaminated water supplies or other environmental health risks. It’s important to stay alert, calm and aware of your surroundings.
Recovery can be difficult, and it may be emotional and stressful for you and your family. During this time, it is essential to look after your wellbeing.
It is important to stay up to date with the latest official warnings and alerts by visiting www.emergency.wa.gov.au.
If you need help removing debris, call your local government. For emergency temporary repairs needed to make your home safe, phone the State Emergency Service on 132 500.
Be aware that calls for assistance are prioritised to assist those most in need, so it might take several hours or even days before help may come.
Contact your insurance company to report any damage or loss as soon as possible. They will send an assessor to your property to process your claim. Depending on their advice, you may be able to begin repairs as soon as is practical.
Check with your insurance company before entering a contract with cleaning or repair contractors to avoid additional bills. If safe to do so, collect photo evidence of damage for insurance purposes before removing debris or repairing.
If you are a tenant with home contents insurance, contact the insurer and tell your real estate agent or landlord.
If you cannot remember the name of your insurance company or the details are unavailable, you can contact the Insurance Council of Australia on 1300 728 228 for assistance.
The Department of Communities can provide personal support services and practical assistance such as: help to access or replace identity documents, advocacy, counselling, and psychological support, and referral to other support service providers.
To speak to someone about wellbeing support that may be available to you, call the Disaster Response Hotline on 1800 032 965.
Most people will recover over time with the support of family and friends. However, after a crisis, it is often easier to talk to a professional who is not involved in the situation and is trained to listen. Organisations that can help with counselling, support and referrals include:
