Skip to main
The Salvation Army
Believe in good

News

The Salvation Army Assists Victims of ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald

Published on
28 January 2013

With destructive storms, tornados and major flooding impacting communities in Queensland and northern New South Wales, The Salvation Army, as it has in the past, is assisting individuals and families in need at this time.

Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) staff and volunteers have been deployed to designated evacuation centres and will initially provide meals as well as emotional support to those in need. The Salvation Army will also provide ongoing support to individuals and families once the true extent of the devastation becomes apparent.

Salvation Army spokesperson, Major Bruce Harmer, says “coming off the back of the destructive fires in southeast Australia, these storms have come as a shock to many. The destruction to property as well as the emotional impact on individuals and families is of great concern to us.”

“The Salvation Army has a long history of standing with and providing support to people in need – be it through war, personal crisis or natural disaster. Just as The Salvation Army provided support during and after the floods in Queensland in 2010 / 11, The Salvation Army will be there to provide support during this time of need.” Major Harmer said.

Anyone impacted by the disasters and who require emotional support at this time should contact Salvo Care Line on 1300 36 36 22 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

Australians wishing to assist at this time can do so by donating to the Australian Disaster Relief Appeal online at salvos.org.au, by phoning 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or in person at any Westpac Bank branch across Australia. Donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Related news

friends sharing a Christmas meal
30 July 2026

Christmas — ‘tis the season to be jolly and money savvy

Christmas can be a time of joy and celebration, but also stress. The pressure to spend, along with the laundry list of...
A Salvos officer offers a hot coffee to a man sitting against a graffiti-covered wall.
20 July 2026

How The Salvation Army helps people experiencing homelessness

Learn how The Salvation Army supports people experiencing homelessness through emergency relief, crisis accommodation,...
Jonathan Dyer, Program Manager of The Salvation Army’s Veteran Support Team.
15 July 2026

Finding home: why veteran-specific homelessness support matters  

People experiencing homelessness often face overlapping challenges including trauma, addiction and a lack of secure...