Disaster recovery
Can we count on you after the next disaster?
Bushfires, floods, and cyclones are a reality of life for many communities across Australia, and when disasters occur, people often want to help.
Anglicare Disaster Recovery volunteering provides an opportunity to care for people and communities in those moments.
We welcome people like you - people who are willing to be vetted, trained and equipped to bring practical support when help is needed most.
Disaster recovery volunteering
Anglicare's Disaster Recovery volunteers are part of a coordinated community response. They are a calm, supportive presence in Evacuation and Recovery Centres, providing essential items and personal support when it matters most.
Disaster Recovery volunteering is flexible and responsive - it's not an ongoing weekly commitment. Anglicare provides training, resources, support and opportunities to connect with your local volunteer team throughout the year, so you're ready and supported when you're needed.
Volunteers are only called upon when Anglicare receives official requests from the NSW Government, ensuring support is necessary, coordinated and effective. When an emergency occurs, you simply choose the shifts that suit your availability.
When disasters happen, communities need calm, caring and well-prepared people around them.
Sign up now to be ready to assist.
Begin your journey whenever you're ready!
If you're interested in joining Anglicare's Disaster Recovery volunteer team, you're welcome to start in the way that suits you best.
We encourage you to join a 60-minute information session to meet the team, understand our role and ask questions.
Or if you're ready to put your hand up, send us an enquiry using the form below!
Your next steps
Get a NSW Working with Children Check (WWCC)
Disaster Recovery volunteers work with people who may be distressed, displaced or vulnerable. That's why everyone needs to complete some checks and training before they can volunteer.
To check whether you have a current NSW WWCC, or find your WWCC number, click here.
Submit your application
Once you have a WWCC number, you'll complete an online application form and provide the contact details for two referees.
Complete a NSW Police Check application
Once we receive your application, we'll organise a NSW Police Check at no cost to you. You'll receive an email with a link to complete the check online.
Complete your training
You can begin your training at a time that suits you. You can use our flexible online options to work at your own pace or attend face-to-face training.
Welcome to the team!
Once your checks and training have been successfully completed, you'll be assigned to a team and linked with your local team leader. Local teams meet a few times a year to stay connected, build skills, and support each another.
You'll receive a uniform, ID badge, role description and volunteer manual, along with ongoing training and team development opportunities.
Being a Disaster Recovery volunteer is about staying connected and prepared. There are no weekly requirements, and you can always say "no" when you're unavailable - we understand that life can be busy, full and unpredictable.
Every volunteer makes a difference. The more people who are prepared, the better our response can be. If you're looking for a practical way to care for people and communities, we encourage you to join us.
For further information, please use the form below to send us an enquiry.
Anglicare is one of five recognised Disaster Welfare Community Partners under NSW Emergency Management Arrangements. Anglicare only activates its volunteers to Evacuation and Recovery Centres when it receives orders from the NSW Department of Communities & Justice (DCJ) and Reconstruction Authority (RA) to ensure that disaster recovery activities are officially and effectively coordinated.
Enquire today
Inspired by the gospel of reconciliation in Jesus Christ, Anglicare's vision for reconciliation is a nation in which Australia's First Peoples are restored in dignity, respect, empowerment and opportunity.