Preparing Gippsland Communities Project

Introduction

The Preparing Gippsland Communities Project was established in response to the increasing health risks associated with climate change—particularly the growing frequency and severity of bushfires, floods, and heatwaves across the Gippsland region.

Funded through the Preparing Australian Communities Grant, the project has been led by Gippsland PHN to build more resilient health systems and strengthen the region’s capacity to support vulnerable populations during emergencies. It also aims to improve emergency planning and enhance awareness of climate-related health risks.

Key project outputs

Gippsland Geospatial Climate Vulnerability and Risk Map

Developed in partnership with Mosaic Insights, this interactive map is the first of its kind in the region. It geographically identifies Gippsland’s most climate-vulnerable communities using publicly available data—including ABS Census, socio-economic, health, and environmental indicators. The map supports emergency planning, resource prioritisation and service delivery.

Primary Care Emergency Pathways Document

Created in collaboration with our Project Advisory Group and Clinical Council, this document outlines the role of primary healthcare in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. It is designed to help primary care providers better understand emergency management systems, strengthen support for vulnerable groups, and improve local disaster resilience.

Priority Populations Contact Guide

This practical guide lists key organisations that support vulnerable communities across Gippsland. It enables healthcare providers to build stronger partnerships, improve care coordination, and ensure better outcomes for those most at risk.

Together, these resources aim to improve Gippsland’s preparedness and response to climate-related disasters, with a strong focus on health equity and system-wide collaboration.

Acknowledgement

This project received funding from the Australian Government’s Preparing Australian Communities Grant, through the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.

Share your feedback

We welcome your feedback on the resources and the Geospatial Risk Map.

Email us at: primarycareresponse@gphn.org.au

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