What to do in a Flood
Flooding events can be dangerous for everyone, but getting away quickly can be especially difficult for people with disability. You need to plan where you will go, who you will contact, and where you can get help. Having a go-bag ready makes sense so you can leave quickly in an emergency.
Quick links | What to do | Help now | NDIS | Financial | Advocacy | Resources
ABC Emergency has created a guide on Planning for an emergency: flood, including what to do before, during, and after a flood, as well as links to flood emergency services. It is important not to enter floodwater, even if it looks calm. Of the 159 flood-related deaths between 2005 and 2015, a combined study by Griffith University and Royal Life Saving found that more than half were people attempting to drive through floodwaters.
Floods can be deep and fast flowing in many areas. It is important to be ready now and plan for what you will do in a flood. Do not enter floodwater on foot or in a vehicle.
Content warning
The following video may be distressing for some viewers.
What to do
- Do not enter floodwater. Don’t drive into it, don’t walk into it, don’t swim in it, and don’t let children play in it. Flood water may appear calm and low, but it is unpredictable. It may rise quickly, and swift currents running underneath the surface may not be apparent. There may also be debris hiding behind the surface, which can pose a real hazard.
- If caught in floodwater, call for help immediately.
- Stay well away from fallen powerlines. If powerlines are down, water may be electrified and unsafe to enter.
- If evacuated, do not go home until authorities say it is safe.
- Find your nearest relief centre and the safest route to get there.
- Pack a go-bag of essentials (if you have time) and be ready to leave quickly.
- Let family and friends know where you are and where you are going.
- Listen to your local radio or another local news source for up-to-date information.
Call for help
If you need assistance during a flood event, call your local State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500 or Triple Zero (000) if life is in danger.
Financial stuff
Centrelink
Centrelink can help with a lump sum payment of $1000 for adults or $400 for children for people who have been financially impacted by floods.
Go to Services Australia - Natural disaster for more information and to apply online.
Insurance
Here are our 5 Top Tips for Insurance: Flood Damage
NDIS
In an emergency, you should always call 000. For your safety, please follow the advice from your local emergency services.
The NDIA's priority is to support participants, their families and carers during this time. They encourage you to contact the NDIS National Contact Centre on 1800 800 110 to ensure they can quickly support any affected participants. Please press “5” for help with flood-related issues.
NDIA is prioritising all calls from participants affected by severe weather events.
If you need urgent repairs or replacement of assistive technology, the NDIS National Contact Centre can help get funds authorised over the phone. Find out more about urgent AT repairs.
Advocacy
If you need access to individual advocacy to support you or provide specific advice, you can search using the DANA - Find an Advocate online tool.
