Bushfire Support Resources
The devastating bushfires across NSW and Australia have had an enormous impact on many communities in our region, primarily in the Wollondilly and Wingecarribee shires.
We have put together some useful resources for individuals and communities in South Western Sydney in need of support.
Bushfire Mental Health
Support & Resources
Access mental health support
- Bushfire Support in South Western Sydney - Mental Health Support & Resources
- A4 Poster - Have you been affected by bushfire?
- Mental Health support & information
- Recovery Point has local mental health services available for people in South Western Sydney, mental health information and resources
- Head to Health provides links to trusted mental health support online and by phone, resources and treatment options for individuals or someone they care about
- NewAccess - free mental health coaching and support for anyone feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed (no GP referral needed)
- Assisting a person affected by the bushfire crisis - A guide by Mental Health First Aid Australia
Access mental health support for young people
- Headspace - Information for young people
- Information for young people affected by natural disaster
- Supporting young people affected by natural disaster - Information for family and friends
Protect yourself from smoke
- Advice on protecting yourself from bushfire smoke
- National Asthma Council resources to instruct patients on the correct use of inhalers and spacers.
Watch National Asthma Council 'How-to' videos
Other important information
Bushfire Recovery Assistance - A range of assistance measures are available
Healthdirect - Bushfire Health and Safety
Managing medications during and after a bushfire
NSW RFS - (NSW Rural Fire Service) - major fire updates
Returning home safely after a bushfire
Healthdirect - After Hours GP helpline - Need to find a GP or pharmacy at night or the weekend?
Law Council of Australia - Resources for assistance
Applying for Rural Assistance Authority disaster recovery grants (available in Wollondilly & Wingecarribee shires)
Podcast
Lifeline’s Holding on to Hope podcast - Survivor of three major bushfires, Chris Bogusis, tells his story in the 24 March, 2020 episode.
Resources for GPs - Practice Pulse January 2020
Natural Disasters_Resources for Primary Healthcare Professionals_February 2020
Need help now?
If emergency help is required, call 000.
Call the following numbers for free, confidential support 24/7 from trained specialist counsellors.
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- Lifeline Bushfire Recovery Helpline 13 43 57
- Mensline Australia 1300 78 99 78
- Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 (supporting ages 5 - 25)
- beyondblue 1300 224 636
- GriefLine: 1300 845 745 (12pm to 3am, 7 days)
- Counselling Online (Drug and Alcohol Counselling): 1800 422 599 (24/7)
