Wollondilly Shire Council has announced the launch of its new Disaster Recovery Volunteer Database, an important initiative aimed at enhancing community resilience and preparedness for future emergencies.

Funded by the NSW Government under the 'Unsung Heroes' Social Cohesion grant, the project is designed to connect volunteers with recovery agencies and community organisations in need of support after disaster strikes.

The Disaster Recovery Volunteer Database will serve as a crucial tool for coordinating and deploying volunteers effectively, ensuring a well-organised response to future recovery efforts. This innovative system will streamline the process of matching spontaneous and informal volunteers with opportunities to assist in recovery operations, making it easier for both individuals and organisations to contribute to recovery and resilience.

Council’s Director Shire Services, Peter Buckley said, “Our community’s strength lies in its people and the Disaster Recovery Volunteer Database is a testament to that spirit of support and collaboration.”

“We are excited to launch this project and to see how it will enhance our ability to respond to emergencies. We hope it will provide opportunities for our amazing volunteers, who are always ready to help in many informal and spontaneous ways during events such as droughts, bushfires, storms and floods.”

The database is now open for volunteer registrations and also invites local recovery agencies and community organisations to join as partners. By becoming part of this initiative, organisations can access a pool of committed volunteers ready to assist in recovery efforts.

For more information about the Disaster Recovery Volunteer Database and to register as a volunteer or recovery partner, please visit https://www.wollondilly.nsw.gov.au/emergency-management/disaster-recovery-volunteer-database/