Recover

Getting back on your feet after a disaster can take time—but support is available.
After a cyclone, flood, bushfire or other emergency, recovery begins. It’s about restoring your home, health, and wellbeing—and knowing you're not alone.

First Steps After a Disaster

• Check on your loved ones and neighbours—especially older residents or those who may need help

• Listen to official updates—follow Council’s Disaster Dashboard and local ABC Radio for safety advice

• Don’t return home until it’s safe—wait for the all-clear from emergency services

Water Use After a Cyclone or Flood

• Listen for local water safety alerts, your tap water may not be safe to drink right away
• Boil water if advised before drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth
• Avoid floodwater, it may contain sewage, chemicals or sharp objects
• Conserve water where possible to ease pressure on supply systems
• Flush taps if your water supply has been interrupted, run cold taps for a few minutes to clear any sediment
• Check for leaks around your property and report burst pipes to Council.

 

Reporting Damage

If you see damage after a disaster—especially to roads, bridges or drains—it’s important to report it so crews can respond quickly and prioritise repairs.

To report damage to roads or public infrastructure:

  • Call 1300 763 903 (Cassowary Coast Regional Council)
  • Submit a Customer Request Online
  • Or use the Snap Send Solve app to upload photos and details from your phone

Please don’t assume someone else has reported it. Your report helps keep our community safe and recovery moving.

 

Support Available

You may be eligible for recovery assistance through state and federal government programs, including:

• Disaster recovery payments

• Emergency hardship assistance

• Support for small businesses and farmers

Check the Queensland Government Recovery Support website or call 1800 173 349.

 

Community Recovery Hubs

After a natural disaster, Community Recovery Hubs are set up in affected areas to provide face-to-face support and information.

These hubs are a place where you can:

  • Talk to someone about your situation
  • Access emotional and mental health support
  • Get help applying for grants or disaster payments
  • Find out what local services and support are available

Recovery Hubs are run by the Queensland Government in partnership with local councils and community organisations.

Hub locations and opening times will be shared on the Cassowary Coast Disaster Dashboard and Council’s Facebook and on this page when active.

You don’t need to go through recovery alone—help is close by.

 

Mental Health and Wellbeing

Disasters can take a toll on mental health. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed.
• Talk to your GP or a mental health professional
• Support services like Lifeline (13 11 14) and Beyond Blue are available
• Stay connected—check in with family, friends, or neighbours

Help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, anywhere in Australia. Call:

Lifeline – 13 11 14

Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 

Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636

 

 

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