Emergencies are disruptive and can be stressful. The recovery process is personal and can take time. Australian Red Cross provides useful resources to help with coping after a crisis and to support others you care about, including practical tips and resources to look after your mental health and wellbeing.

Emergency Recovery Victoria provide support, advice and counselling for you and your family if you’re recovering from storms, bushfires or floods: Recovery services, wellbeing and support.

The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing provide support for those affected by emergencies and natural disasters and have resources to support preparedness, response and recovery.

Emergencies can lead to new legal issues such as insurance or exacerbate existing legal issues such as family violence. Inner Melbourne Community Legal provide free legal assistance to people on low incomes in the City of Melbourne. Disaster Legal Help Victoria also provide legal information and support for people affected by disasters.

The City of Melbourne Helping Out Guide provides a comprehensive list of free and low-cost services from organisations in the central city and surrounding suburbs. It includes a map and information about food, accommodation, health services, drug and alcohol services, services for women and legal advice from more than 70 organisations. The Community Food Guide provides information on how to access affordable, fresh and healthy food, including a community food map.

Prepared communities