Floods can happen fast and leave lasting impacts.

Whether you’re in a flood-prone area or simply want to be prepared for an unlikely scenario, Acenda is here to help you prepare with as much confidence as possible.

How to prepare before a flood

Preparing early can help keep your property and possessions safe, and make you feel ready to face challenges when they come your way.

Tips for effective preparation

• Know your flood risk:
  • Check local council flood maps and sign up for emergency alerts from your State Emergency Service.
  • Develop a flood preparedness plan.
• Prepare your property:
  
  • Move valuables and electrical items to higher ground.
  • Clean gutters and drains.
  • Sandbag entry points if advised to do so by authorities.
• Make a flood evacuation plan:
  
  • Know where you’ll go, when you’ll leave, what you’ll take, and how you’ll get there.
  • Plan for pets, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
  • Stock up early on fuel, water, non-perishable food, and medications.
• Stay informed:
  • Follow local SES or emergency authorities online.
  • Tune into ABC emergency radio.

What to pack in a Flood Emergency Kit

Have this packed and ready to go, ideally in a waterproof bag or container.

Emergency kit checklist

• Important documents (IDs, insurance documents, medical cards, and prescriptions)
• Medications and glasses
• First aid kit
• Mobile phone and charger/power bank
• Bottled water (3L per person, per day) and non-perishable food 
• Protective, water-resistant clothing and sturdy shoes
• Warm spare clothes and sleeping gear
• Hygiene products, insect repellent, and hand sanitiser
• Wind-up or battery-operated radio and torch
• Emergency contacts list
• Pet food, medication, and leash/carrier
• Photos of valuables (for insurance claims).

What to do during a flood

Your safety is the priority. If flooding is likely: 

• Move to higher ground or evacuate early if advised.
• Turn off power, gas, and water (if instructed by authorities).
• Never drive or walk through floodwaters – it’s dangerous and unpredictable.
• Stay tuned to online, radio, and emergency app updates from local councils, the SES, or the ABC.

How to recover after a flood

Coming home after a flood can be overwhelming. Here’s how to stay safe and supported.

Safety first:

• Don’t re-enter your home until authorities say it’s safe to do so.
• Be aware of electrical hazards and structural damage.

Cleaning and health:

• Disinfect surfaces and throw out anything that’s been contaminated by floodwater. 
• Wear gloves, boots, and face masks.
• Watch for signs of mould and dampness.
• Boil water if your supply has been compromised.
• Take photos of any damaged goods, property, and important documents for insurance purposes before you start the clean-up.

• It’s okay to feel emotional – support is available.
• Talk to your GP or reach out to a counselling service.
• Acenda can also connect you with mental wellbeing resources and professional help. Call us on 13 65 25, 8.30am to 6pm (AEST/AEDT), Monday to Friday.
• Understand that recovery can take time – being patient and kind to yourself and others can go a long way.

Staying connected during an emergency

• Call 000 if you’re in immediate danger.
• Develop a flood preparedness plan guided by the Australian National Emergency Management.
• Stay updated via local authorities and reliable sources for warnings and evacuation notices.

Here are key state contacts for emergency assistance: