Emergency Planning for Elderly and Carers in Gippsland

In Gippsland, floods, fires, storms and power outages aren’t just headlines. They’re part of life. And for many older people, carers, and those living with health issues or disabilities, preparing for a disaster can feel overwhelming—or even impossible.

But here’s the good news: a lot is changing behind the scenes to make disaster response more community-friendly. Local GPs, pharmacists, and allied health providers are working together with Gippsland PHN (Primary Health Network) and emergency agencies to build a more responsive, more compassionate plan—one that puts you at the centre.

Let’s break down what that means—and what small steps you can take to be safer and more supported when disaster hits.

What’s Changing?

1. Health services are planning ahead—together.
   Doctors, nurses, pharmacies and community health organisations are being included in emergency planning for the first time in a coordinated way. That means your local GP might soon be part of the official disaster response team—at field clinics, evacuation centres, or over the phone.
2. Priority populations are being named and planned for.
   If you’re older, have a disability, live in a remote area, or care for someone with health needs—you’re considered a priority. This doesn’t mean “vulnerable” in a negative sense. It means you’ll be at the front of the line for help, information, and medical support when something goes wrong.
3. Your medical information matters.
   Health professionals are being encouraged to help patients keep printed medication lists, update their My Health Record, and prepare for emergencies. This means quicker care in stressful situations—even if you’re away from home or without your usual support.

What Do You Need to Do?

1. Check your health records.
   Ask your GP or pharmacist if your My Health Record is up to date. Print a list of your current medications and keep it somewhere easy to grab—like near your door, in your wallet, or with your emergency bag.
2. Talk with your care team.
   Ask your GP, nurse, or community health worker:

“What happens to people like me during a flood or bushfire?”
They may have new training, resources, or planning options that can help you prepare.

3. Know who to call—and who’s calling you.
   Keep a written list of important phone numbers. Gippsland PHN is developing a Contact Guide for priority populations and emergency health messages. Make sure your carers, neighbours, or family know how to reach you and check on you.
4. Prepare for power outages.
   If you rely on powered medical equipment or refrigerated medicines, talk to your healthcare provider about backup options. Even having some paper-based medical forms and a few extra supplies on hand can make a difference.
5. Ask if you’re on a ‘Vulnerable Persons Register’.
   This is a confidential list managed by councils and care providers to make sure people who need extra support aren’t left behind. Your aged care provider, disability support worker, or local council can help you check if you’re on it—and if not, how to apply.

What If You’re a Carer?

You’re not forgotten. In fact, carers are seen as critical community connectors. You know who needs help and how to reach them.

Things you can do:

• Have a list of medications, doctors, and care routines for the person you support.
• Talk to your local pharmacy or GP about emergency scripts or telehealth options.
• Make a basic communication plan—who to call, where to go, and what to take if you need to evacuate.

Disasters are scary. But knowing someone has your back makes all the difference.

With this new plan, Gippsland is saying: your life, your health, your care matters. Whether you’re 80 and living alone, a full-time carer, or someone navigating life with complex health needs, you are not an afterthought in a crisis. You are a priority.

And being prepared—just a little—can help you stay safe, connected, and cared for when it matters most.