Emergency Recovery

Recovering from an emergency takes time. It involves supporting people, restoring services, repairing damage and helping communities move forward.

The Shire coordinates local recovery in partnership with the community and responsible agencies. Our Local Recovery Coordinator and Local Recovery Plan guide this work.

Recovery centres

Following an emergency that affects the community, the Shire will establish a Recovery Centre to help people access assistance and recovery information.

The Local Recovery Coordinator will choose a suitable location based on the areas affected and the extent and severity of the emergency.

Finding a recovery centre

When a Recovery Centre is established, we will share its location and details through the Shire’s communication channels.

This page explains our recovery arrangements. It does not indicate that a Recovery Centre is currently open.

What does recovery involve?

Emergencies affect communities in different ways. Our recovery planning considers four connected areas:

People and communities

Supporting wellbeing, social connections and the needs of people affected by the emergency.

Buildings and infrastructure

Addressing damage to buildings, roads, facilities and essential infrastructure.

Businesses and the economy

Understanding the impacts on local businesses, employment and economic activity.

The natural environment

Addressing impacts on land, waterways, vegetation and wildlife habitat.

Our Local Recovery Plan

The Local Recovery Plan sets out how recovery will be coordinated. Depending on the emergency, dedicated groups may be established to focus on particular community needs and impacts.

The Plan also provides guidelines for financial arrangements, including managing donations and distributing government financial assistance.

View the Local Recovery Plan (PDF)

Working with the community

Recovery works best when it reflects the community’s circumstances, priorities and strengths. Our approach is guided by the National Principles for Disaster Recovery.

This means:

  • Understanding the community: recognising local needs, relationships and circumstances.
  • Recognising complexity: understanding that impacts and needs can change throughout recovery.
  • Supporting community-led recovery: involving people in decisions and helping them move forward.
  • Coordinating our approach: working together and adapting as needs become clearer.
  • Communicating effectively: keeping people informed and listening to their concerns.
  • Building on local strengths: recognising the skills, knowledge and resources of individuals, community groups and organisations.

Keeping you informed

People affected by an emergency need clear, timely and accessible information about their recovery.

We will work with the community to understand what people need to know, including what is happening, how to access support and who to contact.

Our recovery communication will:

  • Use clear language and avoid jargon.
  • Be relevant to the people and communities affected.
  • Respect cultural needs and different circumstances.
  • Use a range of formats and channels to make information accessible.
  • Repeat important information throughout recovery.
  • Provide opportunities for people to share and have their experiences acknowledged.