Disasters and emergencies
Whether it’s bushfires, floods, cyclones or prolonged drought, we understand that disasters have a devastating impact on communities and individuals.
We realise that in the aftermath of a disaster, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the enormity of what needs to be done. You don’t have to take that journey alone. The Salvation Army is available to provide advice and clarity, to make sense of what the next steps are and help you regain some control over the situation. We are here to support you for as long as it takes to recover.

How to access 2019/2020 Bushfire Recovery support
Working with state and local government, we offer a range of services and assistance measures to help people and communities across all states who have been impacted by the Black Summer Bushfires of 2019/2020 – including financial assistance, emotional support and referrals.
If you have been affected by the 2019/20 Bushfires and are in need of assistance, please complete the form click here or call 1300 662 217.
If you are in a life-threatening situation, please call 000 immediately.
Your donation in action
Your donation goes directly to supporting people affected by the disaster.
The Salvation Army disaster assistance provides support in different stages of disaster and emergencies. We provide emergency response during the crisis and in the immediate aftermath. Meals and refreshments, care packs, bedding, referrals, counselling and financial assistance are just some of the ways we help.
In later stages we conduct initial assessment and provision of emergency funds for those who have been severely impacted by the disaster. For example, damage to, or loss of, homes and livelihoods.
For more information on how we provide help and support during disasters and emergencies please see our FAQ page.
News and Stories
Salvation Army Emergency Services ready to meet community's needs
15 October 2020
When the catastrophic bushfires of 2019-2020 had the country in its grip, Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) swiftly responded. And in a year marked by disaster, they remain prepped and ready to assist whenever they are needed. Topher Holland, ...
Read moreOngoing care key to supporting bushfire recovery
15 October 2020
As the complex recovery needs of communities impacted by the Black Summer bushfires of 2019-2020 continue to be addressed by Salvation Army ...
Read moreSalvos Bushfire Recovery Team heads to Wytaliba
15 October 2020
When the tight-knit community of Wytaliba was decimated by bushfires in November 2019, the residents suffered unspeakable trauma and loss. W...
Read moreCommunity input and collaboration informs Salvos bushfire support
15 October 2020
Deputy Captain Peter Heward and his crew from the Bombala Fire Station, in the Monaro region of New South Wales, were working tirelessly on ...
Read moreBushfire impacted families at home with new housing pods
25 June 2020
The Salvation Army has entered into an initiative with the New South Wales Government and the Minderoo Foundation to provide bushfire-affect...
Read moreSalvos detail method to bushfire recovery
16 June 2020
Public commentary surrounding the release of funds raised from The Salvation Army’s Bushfire Disaster Appeal, has, at times, been lou...
Read moreBushfire Disaster Appeal Report released
27 April 2020
The Salvation Army has released a six-month Disaster Appeal Report, outlining its ongoing recovery work in areas of Australia affected by de...
Read moreSalvos ramp up bushfire recovery operation
11 February 2020
The Salvation Army has shifted to the recovery phase of its bushfire assistance, thanks to the generous support and contributions of the Aus...
Read moreBushfire recovery efforts
31 January 2020
With several fires still burning out of control, The Salvation Army remains active in its response – supporting emergency personnel a...
Read more