A bushfire emergency can pose a number of health-related risks. This page is intended to give you a quick overview of services and advice available from both the state and federal governments, as well as information about Primary Health Tasmania’s role.
People exposed to bushfire smoke can experience adverse effects due to poor air quality, particularly if they:
It’s important to remember that even healthy people can experience short-term health effects from exposure to poor air quality. The Tasmanian Department of Health has prepared this fact sheet to help people understand how bushfire smoke can affect their health, and what to do if they notice any symptoms as a result of exposure.
If you’ve been directly affected by the bushfires, you can call 180 22 66 for assistance.
You can find an online overview of the federally funded mental health services available here.
Mental health support is available to bushfire-affected Tasmanian communities and for Tasmanians returned from bushfire-affected areas on the mainland.
In January 2020, the Australian Government announced a total of $76 million over two years to ensure Australians have access to the mental health support they need to recover from the effects of the 2019-20 bushfires. More information is available in this fact sheet.
Talk to your GP about the options available to you, including Medicare rebatable psychological therapy sessions (no referral or mental health treatment plan required) and telehealth services. People can also self-refer to an accredited social worker – this directory from the Australian Association of Social Workers can help you find a social worker near you.
Through Primary Health Tasmania, the Australian Government has also funded the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tasmania and the Huon Valley Medical Proactive to provide additional psychosocial support to people living in the Fingal Valley and Huon regions respectively.
This support is available to Tasmanians in these areas who have been impacted by bushfire, with both organisations providing services that focus on maintaining and enhancing the quality of life for individuals and their families.
A reminder also that Primary Health Tasmania has commissioned a wide range of mental health services available to eligible people throughout the state. Full details are available on Our Services Portal.