The rise of unofficial evacuation centres

During recent bushfires and floods in NSW, there has been an increased prevalence of unofficial evacuation centres being established by local community groups to assist affected residents.

Significant planning occurs through all levels of government and within the community to ensure that assistance and care is provided for those affected by disasters. Usually, emergency services and government agencies work alongside not-for-profit organisations to provide a place of safety and security for people during evacuation, in line with basic public expectations of government during disasters.

Mitchell Clout from the NSW Ministry for Police and Emergency Services will give a presentation on ‘Unofficial evacuation centres and community resilience’ at the Australian & New Zealand Disaster and Emergency Management Conference at QT Gold Coast, 5-7 May.

The presentation will draw on case studies from recent disasters in NSW with reference to current policy and guidelines. It will also consider the opportunities and risks which government agencies and emergency services should consider when non-traditional organisations operate unofficial evacuation centres.