The Australian Recovery Manual describes disaster recovery in the following terms:-

"Disaster recovery is the coordinated process of supporting disaster affected communities in the reconstruction of the physical infrastructure and restoration of, emotional, social, economical and physical well-being."
The key elements of its definition are:-

• that the recovery process is a coordinated one involving the community;
• that affected communities are supported;
• that physical infrastructure is rebuilt; that the emotional, social, economic; and
• Physical well-being of the community and its members is restored.

Emergencies and disasters typically have a wide range of impacts on individuals and communities. Some examples of these impacts include:

• the impact of evacuation for short or long term;
• damage to community infrastructure;
• personal loss; and
• financial hardship

Recovery planning and the associated activities is by far the most important facet of emergency management. All over the world we see examples of poor recovery planning and response.

Section 36(b) of the EM Act 2005 states that:

It is a function of Local Government

(b) To manage recovery following and emergency affecting the community in its district;

Local Government is the ‘managing agent’ on behalf of the community and in that capacity, consult with and direct the efforts of relief agencies and services in community recovery.

The links below have been provided as a guide for planning community recovery and some give insights into past experiences.

Guide to Developing Your Community’s Recovery Management Plan (Draft)

Community Resources Online - Emergency Services

State Welfare Emergency Management Support Plan

State Registration & Inquiry Emergency Management Plan

Click here to download the Guide to Developing Your Community's Recovery Management Plan