“Stock your garage”? Not if you don’t have one – new workshops rethink disaster prep

A series of free workshops aimed at helping people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity prepare for natural disasters will roll out across the Northern Rivers this month.

Run by local housing justice organisation House You, the Preparedness for You program is designed specifically for those often overlooked in traditional disaster planning – including renters, couch surfers and people without stable housing.

The workshops will cover practical disaster readiness, tenancy rights before and after disasters and ways to build mutual aid networks and community connections.

House You founder Chels Hood Withey said mainstream preparedness advice routinely misses the mark for people without secure housing.

“Every piece of disaster advice out there was written for someone who owns their home,” she said.

“Stock your garage. Retrofit your property. Install solar. Get a lithium battery. If you’re renting, couch surfing or just one rent increase away from losing your place, that advice doesn’t apply to your life – and it can make people feel like preparedness simply isn’t available to them.”

Hood Withey said the Northern Rivers community had already endured multiple disasters in recent years, from catastrophic floods to bushfires and ongoing displacement.

“The people who are most exposed in those events are renters and the unhoused – and no-one has ever built a training program for them,” she said.

“We’re changing that.”

The workshops are supported by the Community Disaster Action Group and the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal.

Sessions will be held from 10am to 1pm at Byron Community College in Mullumbimby on Thursday 23 April; Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club on Friday 1 May and Banora Point Community Centre on Saturday 2 May.

Entry is free, with food provided, including vegan and gluten-free options.