Disaster support
CASPA is dedicated to supporting our community through the good times and the hard ones. This page includes information to help you weather the storm, cyclone or flood, and ways to ask for help if you need it.
Stay informed
Monitor current weather warnings
While the immediate threat of Ex-Cyclone Alfred has now passed, the QLD and NSW governments and SES are still asking residents of affected areas to be cautious and monitor conditions. There are still potential dangers present, including:
- High tides and large waves
- Heavy and persistent rainfall
- Riverine and flash flooding
- Blocked road access
- Power access cut off
- Limited or no internet or phone reception
We understand how frightening this event may have been for people who were affected by the 2022 floods in Northern NSW. Should you need to speak to someone, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Preparing for an extreme weather event
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Stay informed
Weather events can change at a moment's notice. Keep up to date via the SES app or emergency broadcasts on ABC Radio.
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Pack an emergency kit
Include important documents, medications, first aid items, water bottle, torch and battery powered radio in case you need to leave.
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Make a plan
Is your location at risk of flooding? Make sure you have enough fuel to evacuate. If you need to leave, do it early and check road closures.
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If its flooded, forget it
It's never safe to drive through flood waters. Only travel when absolutely necessary and find a different route if the road is flooded.
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Prepare your home
Clear gutters, secure loose items outdoors and remove overhanging branches. Repair broken windows and use sandbags if necessary.
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Without water
Access to town water may be cut off. Fill buckets or your bath with clean water now, and add full water bottles to the freezer for later.
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No power, no problem
Have candles or torches ready. Make sure you have non-perishable food and a gas powered way to cook it. Keep your phone charged.
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Shelter in place
Know where the strongest room in your house is, away from big windows. For most people its a bathroom, wardrobe or hallway.
Supporting children
Wild weather can be scary for everyone, but sometimes the children in our care need extra help to understand what's going on and feel safe, calm and supported.
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Validate
Avoid dismissing concerns that children might have. Instead, calmly acknowledge that it's okay to feel scared, and that you are safe together.
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Regulate
Use deep breathing, movement or cozy comfort to help little bodies regulate. Shift the focus from fear by distracting with immersive activities.
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Reassure
Our emotions affect the children in our care. Model deep breathing, stay present and remind children that they are safe.
Birdie and the Cyclone

We're here to help
CASPA Office
Between 8.30am - 4.30pm: 1300 227 722
CASPA After Hours Support
Far North Coast: 0447 185 012
Mid North Coast: 0418 185 847
Child Protection Helpline: 132 111
Police/Ambulance/Fire: 000
Poisons Information Hotline: 131 126