Disaster Appeals
Rotary has been active in Australian communities for more than 100 years. RAWCS understands the need to be there for the long haul. By working in partnership with governments, the public and other agencies, RAWCS is constantly developing response strategies to enable the network of Rotary clubs to better serve the communities they live in.
Rotary supports three phases of relief:
Immediate response: Our local Rotary clubs, Rotary districts and partners immediately offer helping hands and supplies (directly and through other locally engaged organisations).
Short-term assistance: Our local Rotary clubs, Rotary districts help affected communities wherever we can through funds and materials to re-establish day-to-day operations.
Long-term rebuilding: Our local Rotary clubs, Rotary districts plan and implement projects that build back better in their affected communities.
In the immediate aftermath of a disaster, Rotary Clubs in the impacted areas work within their communities to assist with clean-ups, community morale and mental health support and needs assessments using their own resources backed up by nearby clubs and the Rotary District teams. At a national level RAWCS launches an appeal through the Rotary Australia Relief Fund to accumulate specific donated funds and draws on the local knowledge of Rotarians on the ground to fund priority relief and recovery projects.
In the longer- term Rotary projects to build back better, to fortify the community against similar future hazards and build resilience, are funded directly and through significant partnerships. Collaboration with other organisations can meet needs such as funding, training, specific expertise and equipment and training volunteer teams.
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