Disaster recovery is rewarding work. Be it flood, bushfire, cyclone or pandemic, Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) is here to help. With our army of dedicated volunteers, we respond to disasters and deliver support to those in need.
Learn moreDRA brings hope to communities devastated by disaster. We unite the skills and experience of military veterans, emergency responders and motivated civilians to deploy Disaster Relief Teams around Australia and the world. We help people during some of their worst days.
Learn moreDeploying with DRA and supporting disaster affected communities is rewarding beyond measure. Through volunteering, corporate partnerships, financial donations or working with us, there are many ways to make a positive contribution and become a force for good.
Learn moreNews and stories are the heartbeat of our mission. Discover the inspiring narratives of our dedicated volunteers and resilient communities we stand by. These stories vividly depict the impact of our work, showcase the power of compassion and unity and remind us that we can make a difference together.
Learn moreThere are many ways to make a positive contribution and bring hope to others. As a not-for-profit community cause, Disaster Relief Australia exists through the combined generosity of volunteers, donors, corporate partners and fundraisers.
Find out moreEffective disaster response comes from effective training and preparedness. As a Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) volunteer, you are offered a range of nationally recognised training courses to equip you with valuable skills needed for disaster preparedness, relief and recovery. From chainsaw operations, first aid and fencing, to drone and 4WD courses, our training keeps us at the cutting edge.
These courses are optional and best suited to volunteers who want to be actively involved on the ground in field operations. If you would rather support DRA in a different capacity, there are many other ways to volunteer.
Learn how to use a chainsaw safely with training courses provided by Emergency Australia. Begin your learning with the basics of chainsaw, including chain sharpening and servicing, before learning how to apply different cutting techniques. Enhance your skills by learning to use a pole saw and mastering tree felling through basic and intermediate courses.
Obtain or refresh your First Aid and CPR certifications and be ready to act when faced with medical situations. Build on your skills with Remote First Aid, further developing your ability to provide extended care when professional help is delayed.
A common side effect of disasters is damaged fencing. Learn how to supervise volunteers to construct both conventional and electric fencing, ensuring safety and professional standards are upheld.
DRA volunteers have the option to join a skills weekend to become familiar with the equipment and processes we use when setting up on Operation. It is also an opportunity to get to know some fellow volunteers in your local Disaster Relief and Recovery Team.
Before you travel (deploy) on a live Operation, we ask all DRA volunteers to complete the Online Core Operations Course. This course can be accessed via the DRA Learning Portal and is designed to help you prepare for your deployment and know what to expect on DRA Operations.
If you are a current volunteer interested in face-to-face courses with a practical component, such as chainsaw training, 4WD training or First Aid courses, refer to the calendar below. Use the event links in the calendar to submit your expression of interest.
For online-only courses, such as the “Core Operations” course and DRA team role-specific courses, head to the DRA Learning Portal.
TRAINING EVENT: FWPCOT2275 - Fell trees manually (Basic) COURSE PROVIDER: Emergency Australia LOCATION:1196 Stockinbingal Rd, Cootamundra, NSW, 2590 DATE: 6 - 7 December 2025 TIMINGS: 0800 – 1600, Both days ONLINE PRE-LEARNING: […]
TRAINING EVENT: Operational Skills Training COURSE PROVIDER: Internal Disaster Relief and Recovery Team LOCATION: Townsville RSL DATE: Wednesday 17th December 2025 TIMINGS: 1700 - 2030 PREREQUISITES: Must be Engagement Ready or […]
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