As Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches Queensland, we’re actively working to ensure everyone is as safe and connected as possible across our communities.
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is currently tracking southeast and is expected to approach South East Queensland, with landfall anticipated early morning on Saturday, 8 March. Right now it is classified as a Category 2 storm, with the potential to intensify to Category 3 before reaching the Queensland coast.
Please note that the exact landfall location may shift as the situation evolves.
For people living in the impacted areas, it can be really unnerving, so we all need to look after one another. At Life Without Barriers we are prioritising the safety of our staff, carers, and people we support.
We are actively working to ensure everyone is as safe and connected as possible across our communities. Outlined below are the measures we are taking and the support available for our staff, carers, and the people we support during this time.
Image: Landscape of a Queensland beach during a storm with dark clouds and heavy rain. Text: Cyclone Alfred. Stay safe and informed.
National Emergency Management Team
Life Without Barriers has activated our National Emergency Management Team (NEMT), a dedicated group of experts who are focused on providing swift, comprehensive support to our people, carers, and communities with accurate and timely information and resources.
The National Emergency Management Team (NEMT) was officially activated on Thursday, March 6, 2025, with Leanne Johnson, Deputy Chief Executive, Disability and Mental Health, appointed as the National Controller. The team is actively monitoring the situation and collaborating with local leaders to make sure we do everything we can to help keep people as safe and connected as possible.
What is underway now
Local Monitoring: Directors and Managers will stay updated with the latest information from the Bureau of Meteorology to track local conditions.
Cyclone Kits and Emergency Readiness: Teams are ensuring that all cyclone emergency kits are fully stocked and that transportation plans are in place.
Evacuation Planning: Teams are reviewing local evacuation centres and alternative accommodation options, as some evacuation locations may be in the impact zone.
Client Services Guidance
Monitoring Updates: Managers in Queensland and New South Wales coastal locations will stay informed by following local news and government updates.
Emergency Response Protocols: Teams will adhere to local emergency services' instructions and ensure proper escalation protocols are in place.
Transport and Staffing: Teams are preparing transportation options and assessing potential staffing challenges due to weather conditions. Staff schedules will be adjusted accordingly.
Employee Wellbeing and Support
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): All staff, carers, and families have access to EAP services to address any stress or anxiety arising from the extreme weather.
Support Resources: Additional resources are available to support individuals during stressful events. (See attached "Wellbeing During Extreme Weather Events" documents.)
Community Helplines and Emergency Numbers
There are emergency services and essential community resources available to help those affected by the cyclone. Below is a list of helplines and services that can provide information, resources and assistance during this time.
In the event of a life-threatening emergency, please call Triple Zero - 000.
Queensland
Get Ready Queensland
Cyclone Alfred - FAQs | Get Ready Queensland
SES Request for Assistance 132 500
SES Public Information and Inquiry 1800 227 228
New South Wales
SES Request for Assistance 132 500
SES Public Information and Inquiry 1800 227 228
Interpreting Services
For disaster preparedness information in your language or to connect with translating and interpreting services, visit:
National Relay Service
If you are Deaf/deaf or find it hard to hear or speak with people who use a phone, the National Relay Service (NRS) can help you.
Visit the Access Hub website to learn how to make an emergency call using the National Relay Service
The safety of our staff, carers and people we support is our top priority. We will continue to monitor Cyclone Alfred's progress and provide updates as more information becomes available.
For existing clients and Life Without Barriers staff, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact the National Emergency Management Team at nationalemergencymanagement@lwb.org.au.
