We work collaboratively in times of disasters with eligible organisations via a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).  If you are interested in utilising the DRN contact us via  [email protected]. 

The DRN can be activated in any disaster or emergency situation. This includes but is not limited to: 

• Climate events (e.g., bushfires, floods, cyclones) 
• Major car accidents, house fires or other significant events 
• Domestic violence incidents 
• ​Suicide, homicide etc. (Note, the DRN does not provide critical response services) 
• Other events and incidents causing significant stress or trauma (COVID, epidemics, etc) 
   

Support will be provided to frontline workers or emergency response personnel in the immediate aftermath of the event/incident,during the recovery phase or even as a preventative measure in preparation for imminent events. 

The DRN and EAP are complementary services and together provide psychological support to frontline and emergency workers. However, unlike an EAP, DRN psychologists proactively reach out to your employees to provide independent well-being checks. These checks help individuals identify areas of stress and act as an early warning system. It’s as much about prevention as it is dealing with mental health challenges as they happen to ensure individuals stay emotionally healthy, resilient and avoid burnout. DRN psychologists may recommend that an individual reach out to their EAP for ongoing support.

No, DRN psychologists provide one-off independent well-being checks. They draw on their psychological skills and knowledge, as well as their training from the APS Disaster Support Certificate, but in a non-clinical or counselling setting. They use professional psychological practices like active listening, patience, respect, and other relationship/micro-counselling skills. They may also provide problem-solving guidance and other self-care strategies. 
 

Additionally, if during a wellbeing check the need for ongoing support is identified, the DRN psychologist will provide referral to an appropriate health professional/service for follow-up and ongoing psychological care.  

DRN Psychologists have knowledge of other relevant mental health services available for frontline workers. Where possible referrals are made to appropriate local organisations and services that can provide long-term care. We collaborate with you to develop organisation specific referral pathways and processes.   

Although DRN services are not necessarily part of psychologists’ regular professional employment, DRN psychologists undertake such work in accordance with the APS Code of Ethics (2007) and accompanying Ethical Guidelines. 

In conducting IWC’s, DRN psychologists may need to provide a referral if follow-up or ongoing psychological services are required. Referrals are made with the individual’s consent in adherence with ethical guidelines regarding confidentiality.  

Additionally, with the individual’s consent, DRN psychologists may provide feedback to the referring organisation about recommended supports if required. This feedback is kept at a high-level and focuses on the person’s wellbeing, without sharing private information.  

Information disclosure only occurs when necessary and with the individual’s consent, unless they or another person are at risk, or disclosure is required by law.  

Despite the challenging circumstances of providing psychological services in a disaster context, DRN psychologists keep and securely maintain accurate and confidential client records in accordance with the APS Code of Ethics and ethical guidelines.   

Information is stored securely and only shared with the relevant DRN psychologist. 

The DRN was established in response to the Black Saturday Victorian bushfires of 7 February 2009. In the days following the fires, the Australian Psychological Society (APS) received calls from hundreds of members offering their services and support to victims. 

The APS also received a number of calls from emergency response agencies, including The Red Cross (ARC), inquiring about additional support to assist with the recovery effort. The APS responded by establishing the Disaster Response Network for members to register their interest and expertise in disaster recovery.