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"Walking together in kindness" artwork produced for Gold Coast Health by Riki Salam, We are 27 Creative.
Gold Coast Health has never been better placed to provide psychological support in the wake of disasters following a multimillion-dollar investment in our Mental Health Disaster Recovery and Resilience Program (DRRP).
Previously a one-person operation, the specialist service is set to expand to an eight-person team after securing additional funding from the Mental Health Disaster Recovery package in the wake of last year’s ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
The funding, which runs until July 2027, has allowed the DRRP to launch a recruitment campaign for a multidisciplinary team and dedicated team lead.
DRRP Team Lead Leigh Collier said the funding was a golden opportunity to increase the level of psychological support available to people affected by disasters.
“While we are focused on meeting the immediate needs of disaster-affected communities, we are equally committed to ensuring Gold Coasters are better equipped to respond to future disasters in ways that are more protective of their mental health and wellbeing,” she said.
“We want to take learnings from events such as ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and put systems and support in place to reduce the mental health impact of disasters and enhance the natural resilience of community members.”
Leigh said the team worked closely with organisations such as the City of Gold Coast, Gold Coast Primary Health Network, neighbourhood centres, schools and aged care facilities to connect with vulnerable groups before, during and after disasters.
“An example is offering free mental health workshops to support schools and childcare centres following disasters,” she said.
“Through engaging, age-appropriate activities and resources, young people develop the confidence and skills to reduce distress, build coping skills and build lasting wellbeing after disruption.”
The DRRP also oversees the Gold Coast Health Disaster Recovery Registry – a dedicated team of Gold Coast Health staff who support communities when a Human Social Recovery response is needed.
The Mental Health Disaster Recovery package is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments.
If you have been impacted by a disaster and require support, contact the DRRP by emailing GCHHS_DisasterRecovery@health.qld.gov.au or phoning 5687 0000.
