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Gold Coast Primary Health Network (GCPHN) and Brisbane South Primary Health Network (BSPHN) have launched a collaborative disaster preparedness initiative, bringing together health, community and emergency management partners across the Gold Coast, Logan and Scenic Rim local government areas. Reducing preventable hospital presentations during disasters, strengthening coordination between health and community services, and improving awareness of the unique challenges faced by medically vulnerable residents during disasters are key objectives of the health initiative.
“In launching a regional Disaster Preparedness initiative, we are showing our commitment to delivering a person-centred approach to emergency preparedness across key parts of South-East Queensland,” said Kellie Trigger, Director, Health Intelligence Planning and Engagement at GCPHN.
Disasters do not recognise geographic or organisational boundaries. That is why the PHNs are partnering to reduce duplication, align planning and deliver more consistent, person-centred support for local communities most at risk during emergencies.
“By supporting people before an emergency, we aim to reduce preventable hospital presentations and help maintain continuity of care when it matters most,” said Kellie.
“The impact of local severe weather events in recent years has been felt most heavily by people with complex health needs. After broad consultation with stakeholders in South-East Queensland, we’ve identified an opportunity to empower medically vulnerable individuals to understand their risks, identify their strengths and support networks, and develop clear plans that keep them safe and connected.”
Reducing preventable hospital presentations during disasters, strengthening coordination between health and community services, and improving awareness of the unique challenges faced by medically vulnerable residents during disasters are integral goals of the initiative.
GCPHN and BSPHN aim to strengthen referral pathways, improve coordination between services, and ensure people with medical, disability and functional support needs – including people reliant on powered medical devices, temperature-sensitive medications and essential in-home supports – are better prepared to manage their health during disasters.
Central to the initiative is a person-centred emergency preparedness approach, designed to support individuals to understand their disaster risks and plan for their specific health and support needs. The program focuses on building capability through structured conversations that help people identify practical actions they can take to prepare for emergencies.
The approach is flexible and adaptable, allowing it to be tailored to different community settings, cultural contexts and service environments. Through a series of workshops and engagement activities, participants are supported to build confidence, increase self-management skills and strengthen connections with local services.
The initiative aims to deliver long-term benefits for communities by improving disaster readiness at both an individual and system level.
Importantly, the program has been designed in close partnership with local stakeholders who bring deep community knowledge and trusted relationships. By working together, GCPHN and BSPHN will ensure the initiative is locally relevant, culturally safe and responsive to emerging risks and community needs.
As lead organisation and with BSPHN’s team in support, GCPHN will continue collaborating closely with other stakeholders to expand the reach of the program, confirm referral pathways and support shared learnings across South-East Queensland. Insights gathered through engagement and evaluation will help inform future preparedness planning and strengthen sector-wide responses to climate-related emergencies.
Although funding for this product has been provided by both the Australian and Queensland Governments, the material contained herein does not necessarily represent the views of either Government.
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