Join the Disaster Response Network (DRN) now 

To join the DRN, simply complete the DRN survey about your experience and skills in different areas of disaster response and recovery. The DRN survey can be accessed via the following link:

 

Introduction

The Disaster Response Network (DRN) is a national network of psychologists who have a special interest and expertise in working with individuals and communities affected by disasters and emergencies in Australia as well as those working to assist them. 

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 began to receive a number of calls from emergency response agencies, including The Red Cross, who were interested in gaining access to additional support to assist with the recovery effort. The APS responded by establishing a disaster register for members to register their interest and expertise in disaster recovery. 

DRN aims

The primary aims of the DRN are to support members who want to work in the area of disaster response or who are interested in further training or experience in the field, as well as to support organisations seeking psychologists to work with communities and individuals affected by a disaster. 

The DRN will be used as a contact hub to:

  • Facilitate referrals for people seeking psychologists to work with individuals, families, groups or organisations
  • Inform members of training opportunities in disaster specific workshops
  • Provide members with updates in the field of disaster mental health.

How can I join the DRN?

To join the DRN, simply complete the DRN survey about your experience and skills in different areas of disaster response and recovery. The DRN survey can be accessed via the following link:

What sort of expertise do DRN members have?

Members of the DRN have self-reported expertise in a diverse range of areas including:

  • Working with emergency services
  • Working with first responders
  • Delivering skills for psychological recovery
  • Community recovery
  • Schools and disasters
  • Clinical interventions
  • PTSD
  • Grief and loss
  • Critical Incident Stress

DRN Practitioner list

The DRN Practitioner List includes the names, locations and contact details of psychologist Medicare providers who are members of the DRN and have expressed an interest in working with people affected by disasters.

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Further questions?

Any questions about the DRN can be sent to dnr@psychology.org.au.

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