While the clean-up has begun for flood-affected areas of northern-NSW and parts of Queensland, several towns are still bracing for more.
Floodwaters are expected to peak at around 9 metres in Rockhampton in central Queensland on Wednesday, rivaling 2011 levels and threatening thousands of properties.
The number was revised down from an expected 9.4 metres, which would have been the city’s worst flooding since 1954.
So far, at least six people have died as a result of ex-Cyclone Debbie which caused the record-breaking rainfall, and police hold grave fears for at least three more still missing.
While the full extent of the damage wrought by the category four storm across the state won’t be known for days, there are several ways to help victims of the devastating natural disaster, many of whom have lost their homes and livelihoods, today.
Donate money
Multiple registered charities are at the ready to deliver food, equipment, shelter and other support where it’s most urgently required, these are four leading the way and their contact details:
Australian Red Cross Society — phone 1800 811 700 or click here.
The Salvation Army — phone 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or click here and select ‘disaster relief’.
St Vincent de Paul Society of Queensland — phone 07 3010 1002 or click here.
UnitingCare Community — phone 1800 001 953 or click here.
If you don’t have cash, it may be worth linking up with your local branch to assist with fundraising or holding your own event and donating the proceeds.
Donate goods and services
Goods can be offered through GIVIT, an online service operating in partnership with the Queensland government that lets you see what is needed, where. Everything donated through the website goes directly to individuals, families and communities affected by the floods. GIVIT can also connect you with the appropriate charity for your items.
Volunteer
Checking in with your loved ones and making sure they are safe is important, as well as asking them what they need and how you can help.
If you want to want to formally volunteer your time, you can do so by registering with Emergency Volunteering or calling Volunteering Queensland on 1800 994 100.
Find out more information here.