The deadly Queensland and New South Wales floods have wreaked havoc on many communities, resulting in a torrent of grief across the country. Some people have lost everything: their belongings, their cars, their houses, their lives. All at the hands of rising waters. But, as floodwaters recede, the true damage of the wreckage is constantly unfolding. And with that, the community clean-ups have begun, alongside disaster relief for communities affected. Here’s how you can help with QLD and NSW flood assistance.
Brisbane City Council is re-launching Mud Army, an initiative that was first formed in the 2011 floods, where you can sign up to volunteer for the city clean-up in Brisbane. Mud Army 2.0 is set to start cleaning up from March 4.
All public transport and tolls across Brisbane are also free until March 6.
Can’t physically volunteer for QLD and NSW flood assistance?
Item donations to drop off
Disaster and emergency recovery service, GIVIT has compiled a list of nearly 80,000 items that are needed in communities hit most hard by the floods: everything from cleaning supplies and baby wipes to socks and groceries. You can help by dropping off the items needed at the designated drop-off point (if it’s safe to do so of course), providing immediate relief to those who need it. You can find the full list here.
Charity fund donations
Thousands have been displaced by the floods in QLD and NSW, those of which are going to need ongoing support to fully recover. Major charities such as The Red Cross are navigating a disaster appeal across both states. Donating money will provide assistance to communities, which includes the support of relief centres, evacuations, outreach services, and ongoing support. You can donate here.
You can also provide assistance to the SES and State Fire Services to support volunteers in the worst-affected areas. You can donate to the Queensland SES here, and the New South Wales SES here.