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PREPARING FOR NATURAL DISASTERS 2019/20 EDITION

1Preparing for Natural Disasters

Table of contents

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE 3

What is a natural disaster event? 3

Vulnerability indicators 3

GOLD COAST NATURAL HAZARDS 4

Floods and severe storms 5

Bushfires 6

Isolation 7

HAZARD PLANNING AND MITIGATION 8

COMMUNITY DISASTER PRIORITIES 9

What does the City of Gold Coast do in a disaster event? 10

PREPARATION GUIDE 11

Preparing your household 12

Preparing your business 16

Preparing for floods 17

Preparing for severe storms 18

Preparing for bushfires 19

Preparing for isolation 20

Evacuation centres and facilities 21

Communications and warnings 22

Key messages 24

Language services 24

Community events 24

Disaster Relief 25

Disaster Recovery 25

More support 26

EMERGENCY CONTACTS 27

EMERGENCY PLAN CHECKLIST 28

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GET READYThe Gold Coast has a diverse cityscape renowned for its sunny climate, golden beaches, lush hinterland, theme parks, shopping, bars, restaurants and nightlife entertainment.

With a rapidly expanding population and large transient visitor base, the Coast features a broad range of demographic groups and hazard profiles.

The City of Gold Coast Disaster Preparedness Guide provides comprehensive advice and useful tools to help local residents living in vulnerable and isolated communities to prepare for, and effectively minimise, the negative impacts of a disaster they may face.

The information contained within the Guide is sourced from a range of credible online information and data resources including:

1. Disaster Management Act 2003

2. City of Gold Coast Local Disaster Management Plan

3. Prevention, Preparedness, Response and Recovery Guideline

4. People with Vulnerabilities in Disasters Framework

5. State Disaster Management Plan


HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

The Preparing for Natural Disasters Guide has been created by the City of Gold Coast to help local communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from the potential impacts of natural disaster events and emergencies.

What is a natural disaster event?The Disaster Management Act 2003 defines a disaster as, ‘a serious disruption in a community caused by the impact of an event that requires a significant coordinated response by the State and other entities to help the community recover from the disruption’.

Area DefinitionPeople who’d benefit from additional and targeted

Target group statement assistance to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.

Lack of access/disruption to

Vulnerable indicatorsfinancial resources, services, support/carers, medication, aids and equipment.

Overall wellbeing, Protective factors connection, knowledge

and security.

VULNERABILITY INDICATORS

Lack of warning about an event.

Lack of financial resources.

Lack of understanding about the event risk.

Lack of access/disruption to transport, supplies and communication.

Lack of access/disruption to available services, support/carers, medication, aids and equipment.

Isolation – social/physical/geographical.

Unsecure housing or homelessness.

Personal safety through reduced health and/or wellbeing.

Proximity to an event.

Visitors or new arrivals with little local knowledge.

Deciding not to prepare/help oneself.

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GOLD COAST NATURAL HAZARDS

Living in one of the most naturally beautiful parts of the world also brings with it some potentially dangerous hazards. As history shows, the Gold Coast isn’t immune to the threat of natural disasters as decades of historical and predictive data shows.

From the coast in the east to the mountains in the west, the community faces a range of natural disasters and emergency incidents including floods, storms, bushfires, cyclones, landslides, storm tides and heat waves. Historical data identifies a cluster of vulnerable communities that experience vulnerabilities and/or isolation across the Gold Coast.

As a united coastal community, our best protection against any disaster or emergency is to be well prepared through a solid understanding of threats we face and by banding together in a shared spirit to overcome the unpredictable elements.

Knowing your riskThe Gold Coast has experienced a range of natural hazards and events, and although we’re a very connected and resilient community, we must still prepare diligently and understand our real risks and vulnerabilities – both short and long term. By doing this as individuals, families and as a community, we can better face event situations that threaten our loved ones and assets while also recovering far more quickly from their impact.

FLOODS AND SEVERE STORMS

All floods are different depending on where and how the rain falls but one thing’s for sure, they can hit anytime, anywhere, without warning.

Flooding may involve:• RIVER FLOODING

• CREEK FLOODING

• OVERLAND FLOW FLOODING

• SEVERE STORMS.

YOU MAY EXPERIENCE

Please see page 17 and 18 for proactive action information.

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ISOLATION

LOSS OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS

POWER OUTAGES

LOSS OF WATER SERVICES

DANGEROUS DEBRIS

Preparing for Natural Disasters

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BUSHFIRES

Bushfire is one of the most devastating and real threats facing our local communities.

In September 2019, we saw the hinterland region hit with unprecedented bushfire force with communities and emergency services battling blazes 24/7 across a two-week period. When they strike, we work closely with the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services to protect the community and ecology in the affected area.

Bushfires may involve:• PRESCRIBED BURNS

• NATURAL BUSHFIRES

• NATURAL GRASS FIRES.

YOU MAY EXPERIENCE

Please see page 19 for proactive action information.

INCREASED HEAT, WIND, SMOKE AND NOISE

ISOLATION


POWER OUTAGES


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ISOLATION

Due to the natural topography of the Gold Coast, isolation is usually the result of extreme wet weather conditions.

Heavy rain saturates the soil, triggering hillside landslides that block roadways and damage infrastructure. Similarly, local waterways swell and overflow with huge volumes of water destroying bridges and other low lying structures.

Isolation may involve:• FLOODS

• SEVERE STORMS

• LANDSLIDES

• BRIDGE/INFRASTRUCTURE DAMAGE.

YOU MAY EXPERIENCE

Please see page 20 for proactive action information.


POWER OUTAGES


What is a vulnerable community?

All Gold Coast residents face a degree of risk given the potential impact of a natural disaster or emergency. The City of Gold Coast (City) recognises the diversity of our vibrant community and respects the different living circumstances of the thousands of people who reside here. That’s why we identify the unique needs and protective factors people face regarding natural disasters, such as:

• strong family and social connections helping people better prepare and adapt

• vulnerable community members who face increased levels of risk and long term impact.

The Queensland Government People with Vulnerabilities in Disasters Framework outlines disaster in resilience and recovery context with the definition of ‘vulnerability’ reached across the three key areas below.


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HAZARD PLANNING AND MITIGATIONThe City of Gold Coast proactively collaborates with disaster management groups and emergency services to develop mitigation resources and strategies for the safety of our community and infrastructure.

We make it our priority to promptly deliver communications on hazard awareness, household preparedness and emergency planning for events alongside relevant action recommendations.

Where possible, natural hazard mitigation strategies have been put in place to minimise community and asset vulnerability. One such effective initiative is The City Plan Interactive Mapping Tool available online for communities to identify hazards in their area.

To access this tool, please visit the City website:

cityplanmaps.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/CityPlan


COMMUNITY DISASTER PRIORITIES

The City classes community disaster impacts across four key priorities:

• HUMAN SOCIAL PRIORITIES

• ENVIRONMENTAL PRIORITIES

• INFRASTRUCTURE PRIORITIES

• ECONOMIC PRIORITIES

Each priority is considered as to the degree of impact it has on the community and what level of support is needed to coordinate effective preparation and response activities for overall community safety and wellbeing.

HUMAN SOCIAL PRIORITIESWe consider how people may be impacted and recommend precautions to reduce the impacts on:

• immediate relief

• population affected

• isolation/supply

• evacuation

• evacuation centres

• access/transport centres

• health/medical issues

• aged care/schools

• pets.

INFRASTRUCTURE PRIORITIESWe consider the essential infrastructure the city requires to maintain effective response activities and recommend precautions to reduce the impacts on:

• communications

• electricity/power

• water/sewage

• airports/ports

• roads/bridges /rail

• schools

• gas/fuel/oil – storage and distribution.

ENVIRONMENTAL PRIORITIESWe consider how the environment may be impacted and recommend precautions to reduce the impacts on:

• water storage and quality

• agriculture and fisheries

• national parks/ecosystems.

• pest control

• public health

ECONOMIC PRIORITIESWe consider how the economy may be impacted and recommend precautions to reduce the impacts on:

• commercial buildings

• food supply systems

• essential services

• business continuity

• tourism.

WHAT DOES THE CITY OF GOLD COAST DO IN A DISASTER EVENT?Natural disasters can have a significant impact on City operations and the direct local community. When a disaster event is predicted and/or occurs, we may activate our Local Disaster Coordination Centre which brings together skilled operators to coordinate response and recovery efforts.

Our specialised disaster management team collaborates early with emergency services partners to plan and execute effective response activities and communications.

As a local government, we also establish a Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) to direct and manage all the activities in consolidated, professional representation.

LDMG structure:• chaired group

• disaster management professionals

• elect members including emergency services partners

• relevant support agencies.

Emergency services partners:• Queensland Police Service

• Queensland Ambulance Service

• Queensland Fire and Emergency Services

• Rural Fire Brigade

• State Emergency Service

• Department of Communities, Disability Services and Senior Services

• Salvation Army

• Red Cross

• Surf Life Saving Queensland

• Energex

• Utility Providers

• Queensland Health.

Other partners:• Divisional Councillors

• other community-based stakeholders

• neighbouring councils/shires such as: Logan City Council, Redland City Council and the Tweed Shire Council.

Further to coordinating the event response efforts, we also coordinate the immediate recovery and relief efforts to assist communities directly impacted by the disaster, covering:

• temporary shelters and evacuation centres

• alternative accommodation

• critical supplies

• counselling and communication.

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BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

The next section is a guide on how to prepare yourself before, during and after a natural event.


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PREPARING YOUR HOUSEHOLD

Severe floods, storms, bushfires, cyclones and heat waves are all major natural disasters our city can face anytime. As a community, our best protection from any disaster is to be prepared and proactive so we’ve put together some key precaution advice to help your household in the case of an event.

City of Gold Coast tools and resources The City has a range of free tools and resources available to help you be more disaster resilient.

Community Disaster Guide:• Our free Community Disaster Guide includes three easy

steps to protect your family, property and belongings.

• You can download a Guide on the City website or pick one up at any City Library or Customer Service Centre: www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/disasterguide

• Translated Guides are available on the City of Gold Coast ‘other languages’ webpage: cityofgoldcoast.com.au/otherlanguages

Waterproof document wallet:• Our free waterproof document wallet is perfect for

storing important papers and documents.

• They also contain important phone numbers and websites to use in the event of extreme weather or a disaster.

• You can pick up a wallet at any City Library or Customer Service Centre.

Key preparedness advice:� Prepare your Emergency Plan

� Prepare your disaster emergency kit

� Get to know your neighbours

� Listen for local radio updates

� Stop and Listen – act on the warning advice from emergency services


PREPARING YOUR DISASTER EMERGENCY KIT

What to always keep in your kit:� battery powered radio

� spare batteries

� torch

� first aid kit and manual

� strong plastic garbage bags

� tarpaulin and tape for temporary repairs e.g. broken windows

� tools to turn off utilities e.g. water

� copies of important documents (originals) sealed in a waterproof document wallet/plastic bag

What to have ready in your kit when a warning is issued:

� three days of canned/non-perishable food

� can opener

� bottled water

� essential medications and toiletries

� change of clothes, strong shoes, hat/s

� mobile phone and charger – preferably a car charger

� money and bank cards

� spare house and car keys

� important documents

� tent and blankets

� pet food and other needs (if required)

What to include in your kit if electricity/ water/gas loss is an extended possibility:

� clean water in sealed containers – 10 litres per person is recommended for three days

� water purification tablets

� increased food supplies

� barbeque/portable stove with fuel

� fire extinguisher

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PREPARING YOUR PET EMERGENCY KIT (PEK)

There’s no doubt pets of all kinds make wonderful companions and are valued members of our families and households. Before a disaster strikes, you can minimise the impacts on you and your pet/s by following this advice.

Before – PEK:• Consider family or friends who your pet can stay

with in case of a preeminent evacuation.

• Consider how you’re going to evacuate with your pet.

• Include food and water for three days – check with your vet as this will vary.

• Include a first aid kit – check with your vet about inclusions and any specific medical needs.

• Include a photo of you and your pet together making sure any distinguishing markings are identifiable.

• Include familiar toys and/or blankets they like.

For dogs and other relev ant pets, make sure you have:

� current vaccination card

� microchip number registration

� vet/animal welfare agency details

� collar with ID tag

� harness/leash, crate or pet carrier.

Predicted/during: • Bring your pet inside.

• Activate your PEK.

• Never: - leave a pet tied up without shelter and bedding - leave a pet in a motor vehicle.

Evacuation:• Listen to your local radio station for evacuation

centres as some are pet friendly.

• Follow all instructions given by evacuation centre staff when staying with your pet.

• Consider family or friends who could look after your pet while you are unable to return home.

For more information on how to help prepare your pet/s, cityofgoldcoast.com.au/petemergencyplan

Pet emergency numbersCity of Gold Coast Animal Management 07 5581 6664

City Pound 07 5581 7600

RSPCA 07 3426 9999


REMEMBER OUR FURRYFRIENDS IN TIMES OF EMERGENCY

KNOWING YOUR NEIGHBOURS

Being prepared for, responding to and recovering from a disaster event is a whole-of-community responsibility.

We like to encourage community members to get to know your neighbours next door, across the street or over the back fence as it helps develop a strong, safe and connected community. In times of emergency, there’s real safety in numbers.

Benefits of connected communities:• Community members come together

and support each other to overcome the adverse impacts of disaster events.

• Community members are able to enjoy a wider and richer network of resources, wisdom, connections

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PREPARING YOUR BUSINESS

The Gold Coast economy is an important aspect of the wider lifestyle community and when disaster strikes, established businesses and organisations also bare the impact.

Depending on a disaster’s severity, the impacts can cause short and long term trading implications that require fast and practical solutions. With approximately 67,441 local businesses across the city, we encourage community groups, businesses and other organisations to prepare their emergency and business continuity plan because foresight is far more effective than hindsight.

Helpful actions to consider:• Identify and understand natural disaster risks.

• Become familiar with your area including: rivers, creeks, hillsides, roads, bridges, parks etc.

• Check out our City Disaster Management Dashboard.

• Keep your business insurance up to date and confirm cover with your provider.

• Have an up to date emergency contact list.

• Prepare your staff and allocate tasks to prepare your busine

• Consider sending staff home early/when necessary.

• Make sure you have enough stock to supply customers in the critical period after a disaster event.

• Establish reciprocal assistance with neighbouring and similar businesses in your community.

• Become a member of Destination Gold Coast for local networking opportunities.

• Consider the condition of your building.

• Make sure to backup business documents and records.

• Prepare your disaster emergency kit (DEK).

• Check out the Get Ready Queensland website: getready.qld.gov.au

For more information and to help prepare your business, please visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/economicdevelopment

ss.


PREPARING FOR FLOODSYou can reduce the risk of flood to yourself, family and property by taking these simple precautions.

Before:• Become familiar with roads and causeways that

are likely to flood – usually identified with flood level markers – and plan alternative routes.

• Identify when and where you will evacuate to.

• Stock up on non-perishable supplies including bottled water.

• Make sure your Emergency Plan, Disaster Emergency Kit and Pet Emergency Kit are up to date and ready.

• Make sure your insurance covers ‘flood damage’.

• Check out the City Plan Interactive Mapping Tool to see if your property is in the flood map area and download a Flood Search Report: cityofgoldcoast.com.au/floodmaps

Predicted/during: • Listen for local radio updates.

• If it’s flooded, forget it. Don’t walk, ride or drive through flood waters.

• Turn off water, power and gas supplies.

• Raise furniture, valuables and electrical items onto higher floors/beds/tables or into roof spaces.

• Sandbag property entry points.

• Put a sand bag inside toilets and on top of indoor drains to prevent sewage back flow.

• Move vehicles, outdoor equipment, garbage and chemicals to higher ground.

• Ensure the safety of children, the elderly, people with special needs and pets.

• Phone emergency Triple Zero (000) immediately if someone is caught in flood waters.

After:• Listen for local radio updates.

• Don’t wade or drive into remaining flood waters.

• Flood waters may be contaminated and have health risks.

• Don’t re-enter your home until it’s declared safe to.

• Don’t use gas or electrical appliances until they’re safety checked.

• If your electrical appliances are checked and are considered safe for use, boil tap water until water supplies are declared safe.

• Don’t eat food that’s been in flood water.

• If your house is seriously damaged, please contact the SES (132 500) or visit ses.qld.gov.au.

For more information on how to prepare for floods, please visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/disaster

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PREPARING FOR SEVERE STORMS

You can reduce the risk of severe storms to yourself, family and property by taking these simple precautions.

Before:• Make sure your Emergency Plan, Disaster Emergency

Kit and Pet Emergency Kit are up to date and ready.

• Check your insurance covers ‘home and contents’ for storm risk.

• Check the roof and gutters are in good condition, clear leaves and trim any branches.

• Make sure your yard is free of loose items like patio furniture and rubbish.

• Keep vehicles undercover.

Predicted/during: • Keep your Emergency Plan and Emergency Kit with you.

• Listen for local radio updates.

• Don’t use the landline telephone.

• Stay inside and shelter away from doors and windows.

• If you need to shelter in the strongest part of your house, use the bathroom, toilet or hallway.

• Have mattresses and blankets ready for extra protection.


• Remain indoors until you’re advised that it’s safe to go outside.

• Carefully check your home for damage and make temporary repairs (if needed).

• Don’t drink tap water unless you’re advised that it’s safe to.

• Don’t enter flood waters as they may be contaminated.

• Keep away from damaged powerlines, debris and fallen trees.

• If your house is seriously damaged, please contact the SES (132 500) or visit ses.qld.gov.au

For more information on how to prepare for storms, please visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/disaster

BE SAFE.STAY AWARE. BE PREPARED.


PREPARING FOR BUSHFIRESYou can reduce the risk of severe storms to yourself, family and property by taking these simple precautions.

Before:• Write down a bushfire survival plan with

your family and practice it annually.

• Consider survival decisions based on official Fire Danger Ratings.

• Decide at what point you’ll evacuate.

• Consider the age/s and physical capabilities of each household member.

• Clean gutters, trim overhanging branches, cut back bushes and mow the lawn.

• Clear fuel sources from around the house e.g. wood piles, boxes, fuel cans, furniture etc.

• Check water systems, pumps and generators are working with adequate fuel supplies.

• Make sure your water supply is sufficient.

• Make sure your property number is clearly visible for emergency services crews.

• Make sure fire trucks can access your property.

• Make sure your Emergency Plan, Disaster Emergency Kit and Pet Emergency Kit are up to date and ready should you decide to ‘go early’.

• Register for notifications on our Bushfire Alerts page at news.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/alert-section

Predicted/during: • Listen for local radio updates.

• Follow instructions from local authorities.

• Disconnect any hoses and fittings then bring them inside.

• Stay inside to shelter.

• Wear protective clothing.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Patrol for embers inside the property, particularly in roof spaces.

• Check your family and pets.

• Phone Triple Zero (000) immediately to report all fires.


• Continue drinking plenty of water.

• If advised that it’s safe to go outside, check for spot fires and embers both inside and out.

If your house is seriously damaged:• Please contact the SES (132 500)

or visit ses.qld.gov.au

• For more information on how to prepare for bushfires, please visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/bushfire

• For more information on current bushfires and fire related incidents, please visit the Queensland Rural Fire Service website: ruralfire.qld.gov.au/BushFire_Safety

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PREPARING FOR ISOLATION

You can reduce the risk of isolation to yourself, family and property by taking these simple precautions.

Before:• Make sure your Emergency Plan, Disaster Emergency

Kit and Pet Emergency Kit are up to date and ready.

• Stock up on non-perishable supplies including bottled water.

• Become familiar with roads and causeways that are likely to flood – usually identified with flood level markers – and plan alternative routes.

• Identifying when and where you will evacuate to.

• Make sure your insurance covers ‘flood damage’.

• Predicted/during:

• Keep your Emergency Plan, Disaster Emergency Kit and Pet Emergency Kit with you.

• Listen for local radio updates.

• Follow instructions from local authorities.

• Stay inside as much as possible.

• Ensure the safety of children, the elderly, special needs members and pets.


• Remain indoors until you’re advised that it’s safe to go outside.

• Carefully check your home for damage and make temporary repairs (if needed).

• Don’t drive in your area until advised that it’s safe to.

• Keep away from damaged powerlines, debris and fallen trees.

• For flooding: – don’t drink tap water unless advised that it’s safe to – don’t enter flood waters as they may be contaminated.

If your house is seriously damaged:• If your house is seriously damaged, please contact

the SES (132 500) or visit ses.qld.gov.au

• For more information on how to prepare for isolation, please visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/disasterguide

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EVACUATION CENTRES AND FACILITIESIn the event that disaster demands community evacuation, the City of Gold Coast will assist emergency service agencies moving citizens in compromised areas to a secure place of relief.

We take comprehensive measures to identify, plan and coordinate our evacuation centres and facilities. Community safety and comfort during a crisis is paramount which is why our centres are planned in accordance with Red Cross Evacuation Centre Guidelines.

We also provide clear and concise communications advising necessary actions for increased safety.

Evacuation centres• During a disaster, you can find your local evacuation centre by

visiting: – dashboard.cityofgoldcoast.com.au – City of Gold Coast Facebook Page

www.facebook.com/cityofgoldcoast

Communication content may include:• the reason/s and need to evacuate

• the area/s impacted

• who’s impacted

• where to go

Communication methods may include:• SMS

• radio

• TV

• social media

• door knocking

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COMMUNICATIONS AND WARNINGS

DISASTER COMMUNICATIONS

City prioritises the relevant and effective delivery of disaster communications before, during and after an event. This communication may include: hazard awareness, essential preparedness activities and recommended community action.

The following communication sources may be used to reach communities with disaster messages.

INTERNETSocial Media:

• qldalert.com.au

• bom.gov.au

• emergencyalert.gov.au

• dashboard.cityofgoldcoast.com.au

RADIOUHF Radio

Two-way radio is a reliable way of communicating when mobile phones and landlines are down.

Radio Stations

• Local AM/FM public messaging: – 89.3 FM 4CRB – 90.9 FM Sea FM – 91.7 FM ABC Gold Coast – 92.5 FM Gold FM – 94.1 FM Community Radio – 98.1 FM Radio 4EB – 99.4 FM Rebel – 102.9 FM Hot Tomato – 105.7 Radio Metro – 107.3 FM Juice FM.

OTHERSDoor Knocking

• Queensland Police Service.

• Local SES and volunteers may also assist police with door knocking.

Bureau of Meteorology Alerts

• Neighbourhood Watch.

• Community Facebook page.

• Community phone trees –

• Practical resources people use to quickly notify others in the event of an emergency. They are also used as a means to get important communications out quickly, particularly in vulnerable communities.

Variable messaging sign. (VMS)

Emergency Alert –

An emergency alert is a national telephone warning system used by emergency services to send voice messages to landlines and text messages to mobile phones within a defined area. Learn more at emergencyalert.gov.au.

• SMS

• Subscriber Alerts

The emergency warning signal is a distinctive audio signal alerting the community to a major disaster event or emergency. The signal is most commonly aired on free to air media such as radio and television stations and is designed to attract immediate attention.

QUALIFIED STAFF READY TO HELP

YOU IN YOUR TIME OF NEED

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Before:• Local radio stations will broadcast warnings and information.

• The City website may broadcast warnings and information.

• Emergency Services may send a text message to your mobile phone or a voice message to your landline – an automatic service you don’t need to register for.

• In some cases, Emergency Services may door knock houses.

• Warnings may also give advice on where to seek more disaster information.

Predicted/during: • Follow all warning advice promptly.

• Refer to your household Emergency Plan.

• Stay at home unless you’re told otherwise or if it’s not safe to.

More information:• Keep listening for local radio updates.

• Call the City of Gold Coast Disaster Hotline (1800 606 000) or visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/disaster

• For life threatening emergencies, please call Triple Zero (000) immediately.


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KEY MESSAGES

We share natural disaster key messaging with supporting emergency services and media partners to keep the risks and actions top of mind with the community.

Organisation Key messages

Queensland Police Services Public and traffic safety

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services

Prescribed burns information.

Queensland Ambulance Services

State Emergency Service

Telstra

EnergexTake care, stay line aware.

Pick up a phone, not a fallen power line.

Language servicesWith almost one in three Gold Coast residents being born overseas, our city reflects a wide range of cultures, languages and religions. As such, we offer a range of multilingual services and resources including the Community Disaster Guide available in the following languages:

• English

• Amharic

• Bosnian

• Chinese Simplified

• Chinese Traditional

• Farsi

• Japanese

• Korean

• Spanish.

To download a digital copy of the Community Disaster Guide, please visit goldcoast.qld.gov.au/community/resources-in-other-languages

For language assistance, please call: National Translating and Interpreting Service (13 1450)

To use this service, you’ll need to tell them your preferred language and that you need to call: City of Gold Coast 1300 GOLDCOAST (1300 465 326)

For more information on translation, please: cityofgoldcoast.com.au/otherlanguages

National Relay ServiceFor those who are deaf, have a hearing impairment or speech impairment, please call: National Relay Service – NRS (13 3677)

To use this service, you’ll need to advise them that you need to call: City of Gold Coast 1300 GOLDCOAST (1300 465 326)

Community events• Specialised community engagement events are held

throughout the year to help build preparedness, resilience and recovery for communities – particularly those with increased vulnerabilities.

• Events may include:

• City of Gold Coast community awareness events

• Rural Fire Brigade Community Open Days

• Neighbourhood Watch Community Open Days

• Show Days e.g. The Mudgeeraba Show, Gold Coast Show and Monster Machinery Day

• For more information on community events, please visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/events

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AFTER

DISASTER RELIEFSHORT-TERM RELIEF

In the immediate hours following a disaster, the City of Gold Coast coordinates the initial relief and evacuation response and collaborates with community organisations to provide prompt support for those directly affected by the event.

Community organisations may include:

• St John Ambulance Australia

• Australian Red Cross

• St Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies)

• RSPCA

• Animal Welfare League

• Lifeline

• Salvation Army.

• Community support may include:

• temporary shelters

• evacuation centres

• alternative accommodation

• critical supplies

• counselling and communication.

DISASTER RECOVERYThe recovery program for the city is coordinated by the City, with support from a range of Government and non Government agencies.

Recovery program activities may include:• support to families, businesses and rural areas

• financial assistance and advice

• insurance advice and recommendations

• replacing vital/important documents

• debris clean up – commercial, residential, infrastructure

• toxins clean up – mould, asbestos, drugs, poisons

• restoring electricity, gas and water utilities

• managing volunteers and donations.

For more information on disaster recovery please visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/disasterrecovery


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AFTER MORE

SUPPORTThe table below identifies other services available to the community before, during and after a disaster event

Enquiries• For all disaster enquiries, please contact the

City of Gold Coast – Disaster Management Unit: [email protected] Please leave your name and contact number and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Category Organisation Action

Community recoveryDepartment of Communities, Disability Services and Seniors

Phone 1800 173 349

communities.qld.gov.au

Community recovery Insurance Council of AustraliaPhone 02 9253 5100 or 1300 728 228

insurancecouncil.com.au

Community recovery Queensland Reconstruction AuthorityPhone 1800 110 841

qra.qld.gov.au

Community recovery – businesses

Gold Coast Central Chamber of CommercePhone (07) 5578 7184

goldcoastcentralchamber.com.au


Gold Coast Northern Chamber of CommercePhone 1300 765 057

gcncc.org.au


Greater Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce

Email [email protected]

gsgc.org.au

Health services, community services

Lifeline Community CarePhone (07) 3253 4000

unitingcareqld.com.au

Health services, community services

Queensland Health

For emergencies, phone Triple Zero (000)

Department phone 13 7468

health.qld.gov.au

Health services, aged care Blue CarePhone 1300 258 322

bluecare.org.au

Health services, aged care Red CrossPhone 1800 733 276

redcross.org.au

Health services, aged care Salvation ArmyPhone 13 7258

salvationarmy.org.au

Health services, aged care St Vincent de Paul (Vinnies)Phone (07) 3010 1000

vinnies.org.au

Donations – clothing/furniture/white goods

[email protected]

givit.org.au

Family services CentrelinkPhone 13 2850

humanservices.gov.au

Sign language Auslan deaf and hearing impaired servicesPhone 1800 246 945

nabs.org.au


EMERGENCY CONTACTSService Number

Life threatening emergencies

Police, Fire, and Ambulance Services

Queensland Police Service

Queensland Ambulance Service

Queensland Fire and Emergency Service

000 – or contact them individually on:

13 14 44

13 12 33

13 74 68

City of Gold Coast Disaster Hotline

(only activated during declared emergencies) dashboard.cityofgoldcoast.com.au

1800 606 000

State Emergency Service (SES)

emergency.qld.gov.au/ses 13 25 00

Police

Emergencies

Crime Stoppers

Police Link

000

1800 333 000

13 14 44

Bushfire ruralfire.qld.gov.au 000 or 13 74 68

City of Gold Coast After hours emergency

General enquiries

1800 637 000

1800 465 326

Energex/Origin Energy

Emergencies - fallen powerlines

Loss of supply - power outages

General enquiries

13 19 62

13 62 62

13 12 53

Origin Energy Natural Gas and LPG Gas Emergencies (leaks only) 1800 808 526

Telstra Phone and Internet 13 22 03

Optus Phone and Internet 13 13 44

Griffith University HospitalGeneral enquiries

goldcoast.health.qld.gov.au

1300 744 284

Department of Transport and Main Roads

qldtraffic.qld.gov.au 13 19 40

Translating and Interpreting Service

tisnational.gov.au 13 14 50

National Relay Service

Teletypewriter

Speak and listen

Internet relay users

13 36 77 (enter 1300 465 326)

1300 555 727 (ask for 1300 465 326)

1300 555 727 (enter 1300 465 326

Queensland Health 1300 Health (13 43 25 84)

Bureau of Meteorology (BOM)

bom.gov.au (03) 9669 4000

Disaster and Alerts qldalert.com 13 74 68

National Translating and Interpretation Service

13 14 50

Lifeline 13 11 14

28

AFTER

EMERGENCY PLAN CHECKLIST

The table below identifies other services available to the community before, during and after a disaster event

Checkpoint Key considerations

� Identify the potential hazards that could occur in your local area and the warning systems in place.

Know your risks � Think about your situation and how you would cope without power,

access to services and the internet for up to three days.

� Who might you need to contact in a disaster including family, friends, insurance and emergency services?Emergency contacts

� Teach children how and when to dial Triple Zero (000).

� Where would you meet your loved ones if you were separated?

� How would you get your children from school or childcare?

� Where you would go if you had to evacuate? Separation and evacuation

� Ask about emergency evacuation plans at your school, workplace, childcare centre and other organisations.

� Ensure all household members know where, how and when to turn off the power, water and gas supplies in case of evacuation.

� How would you look after your pets and check in on your neighbours in an emergency?

Pets and neighbours � Prepare a disaster emergency plan and kit for your pet: qld.gov.au/emergency/dealing-disasters/prepare-for-disasters/prepare-pets

� Check important policies and documents (insurances, wills) are up-to-date and provide Access points

the insurance cover required for your area and the nature of your household.

� Ensure all household members (including children) are familiar with your emergency plan.

Share your emergency plan � If it is on your computer, be sure to keep a printed copy in your disaster emergency kit in case power is disrupted.


GETREADY

GOLD COAST

See the website for tips and guidance.

References• Australian Bureau of Statistics. 2016. 2016 Census • The State of Queensland. 2019. Other languages (online).

Quickstats: Gold Coast (online). Available at https:// Available at cityofgoldcoast.com.au/otherlanguages

quickstats.censusdata.abs.gov.au/census_services/ • The State of Queensland. 2019. Recovery after a disaster getproduct/census/2016/quickstat/309 (online). Available at https://www.qld.gov.au/community/

• City of Gold Coast. 2019. Disaster management disasters-emergencies/recovery-after-disaster

(online). Available at http://www.goldcoast.qld.gov. • The State of Queensland (Get Ready Queensland). au/council/disaster-management-120.html 2017. Get ready (online). Available at https://

• The State of Queensland. 2017. Toolkit – People with getready.qld.gov.au/homepage/

vulnerabilities in disasters (online). Available at https:// • The State of Queensland (Legislation). 2018. Disaster www.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0022/55219/ Management Act 2003 (online). Available at https://www.supporting-people-with-vulnerabilities-toolkit.pdf legislation.qld.gov.au/view/pdf/inforce/current/act-2003-091

AW

0051

FOR MORE INFORMATION

P 1300 GOLDCOAST (1300 465 326) W cityofgoldcoast.com.au

Documents

Preparing for Natural Disasters - City of Gold Coast...Preparing for Natural Disasters 3 HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE Lack of understanding The Preparing for Natural Disasters Guide has been