World Vision’s international engagement in disasters such as the magnitude of the current floods affecting eastern and southern mainland Australia and the island of Tasmania, provides an understanding of the massive response needed to assist communities to recover.

World Vision Australia is not appealing for funds, however has offered support to domestic relief agencies in their flood responses.  The offer of assistance includes call centre support, office space usage outside of Brisbane, Queensland and learnings from our experiences in responding to mental health needs during emergencies.

“The devastation caused by floodwaters in Queensland has shocked the nation. To witness the instant destruction that has come to our own communities, to hear the tragic tales of people losing loved ones, their homes, in many cases all they own has had a profound impact on Australians everywhere,” said Humanitarian Emergency Affairs manager, Anthea Spinks.

The organisation knows what it means when individuals and communities are affected by natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes and tsunamis, losing homes, loved ones, possessions and livelihoods.

“Our deepest condolences go to communities who have been devastated by the recent flooding.  In Australia we are lucky to have a strong and responsive government, access to financial support and effective emergency services and a strong sense of community that allow us to respond to such disasters,” said Ms Spinks.