Recovery Connect: there for Northern NSW

Recovery Connect is a support service for individuals and communities impacted by natural disasters. 

At Recovery Connect, you will meet your program worker, who will listen to your story, understand and identify your needs, then either directly assist or connect you to the right services – meaning you won’t have to keep re-telling your story to multiple organisations. We can help in areas ranging from specialist counselling, financial assistance, legal advice, identifying grants, business and employment supports, accessing mental health services and much more.  

Recovery Connect will support you to navigate the complex recovery systems and access supports available to those impacted by the disaster. We can help in areas such as identifying, accessing and appealing grants, financial assistance, legal advice, counselling, housing and rebuild supports, business and employment services, and much more.

Your program worker can guide you in your dealings with government and non-government agencies. We can be your single point of contact to services. 

Recovery Connect is available to anyone who has experienced loss and or trauma because of natural disaster, such as floods and bushfire. We are aware that recent disasters can trigger pre-existing conditions (including distress associated with previous floods or fires) and we know people have differing and sometimes complex needs as they recover. Recovery Connect is a trauma-informed and person-centered service. 

You can self-refer by calling 1800 719 625 or email us at [email protected].

You may also be referred by other organisations.

Recovery Connect is available to anyone living in the local government areas of Lismore, Tweed Heads, Byron, Clarence Valley and other areas on request.

Funded under the joint Australian Government – NSW Government Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements 2018.

Heather’s story

Heather and her family had a home in Lismore, but it was swamped by floodwaters in February, 2022. More than a year on and Heather is still waiting to hear if the family is eligible for a government house buyback. After the disaster, the family lived in emergency accommodation but in November they joined the Recovery Connect program and now have a rented home in Lismore and some sense of normality.

Watch the video to learn more about Heather’s story.

Download our Recovery Connect Flyer

Accessing Support After a Natural Disaster

Recovering from a natural disaster presents many challenges that can feel overwhelming at times. From the emotional consequences of loss to the practical difficulties of rebuilding your life, the journey to recovery can be filled with various obstacles. Accessing the right support is vital in overcoming these challenges and finding a way forward. 

Recovery Connect offers essential natural disaster and flood support in NSW to residents of Lismore, Tweed Heads, Byron, and Clarence Valley in New South Wales. Our dedicated program workers are here to either help you directly or help you access a wide array of services tailored to your needs. Together, we aim to assist in your recovery journey, empowering you to rebuild your life and restore a sense of normalcy.

Aerial image of Lismore post-floods, highlighting the need for social and affordable housing.
flood support nsw

Floods Support NSW

At Social Futures, we’ve provided Lismore flood support to residents who need help navigating the services that are available to them. Our program workers will connect you with essential support in areas such as counselling, financial aid, legal advice, and assistance with grants and employment services. 

Social Futures will act as your intermediary, being your point of contact while navigating these support services. By developing an understanding of your unique circumstances, we ensure you access the guidance and resources you need to build a stronger foundation for the future – emerging with renewed hope and resilience.