Queenslanders with disability may face additional risks and barriers during natural disasters. At QAI, we are committed to supporting people with disability and their support networks to be prepared, informed, and protected in times of crisis.

This page brings together key resources, tools, and advocacy services available to help individuals and communities respond effectively before, during, and after disaster events.

We’ve compiled a range of helpful materials to support people with disability in preparing for, and recovering from, natural disasters.

Emergency Preparedness Tools

Justice Connect’s Get ePrepared Tool has information on how to safely store your important documents electronically so you don’t lose them in a natural disaster.

Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN) P-CEP Workbook helps you plan for how you will access your health and safety supports during a disaster.

Know Your Legal Rights

Our Natural Disasters, Disability and the Law booklet outlines the legal protections available to people with disability during and after natural disasters, including information on:

• Emergency accommodation
• Discrimination protections
• Support services
• Recovery assistance

For more information about how disability discrimination and the law works when dealing with a natural disaster, you can read our fact sheet about Disaster Events and Disability Discrimination. 

During declared natural disasters, we extend the operating hours of our free and confidential Pathways hotline to provide extra support to Queenslanders with disability.

Call us on 1800 130 582

Our Pathways team can help with:

• Talking people with disability through Emergency Preparedness materials, including being aware of plans and getting them organised.
• Communicating the plan with people in their support network and with disability advocates throughout Queensland as available.
• Tell people where to find information, and help them understand the information.
• Encourage people to contact emergency services, we can also assist to raise concerns if these services are not accessible.
• Provide information on services and emergency preparedness, community recovery, grants and financial assistance, etc.

Normal hotline hours resume once the emergency has passed.