The headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation has been awarded $9 million from the federal government’s Disaster Ready Fund to enhance disaster preparedness in schools across Australia. This funding will be allocated over three years, starting in January 2026, to support a national initiative known as The Care and Prepare Toolkit. The program aims to foster mental health and well-being in school communities that are vulnerable to natural disasters.
“Schools play a critical role in providing safety and support to children, young people, and families as communities respond to and recover from devastating impacts of natural disasters,” said Jason Trethowan, CEO of headspace. The organization is committed to making a positive difference in schools and communities, ensuring targeted support reaches those most in need.
The Care and Prepare Toolkit will equip Australian primary and secondary schools with customized resources and training designed to build resilience among children, young people, educators, and families. The initiative focuses on increasing awareness and preparedness for natural disasters, helping schools respond effectively and recover afterward.
In addition to the toolkit, the funding will facilitate the delivery of tailored workshops within schools. These workshops will support schools in implementing preparedness activities, thereby strengthening community resilience.
Kristy McBain, Minister for Emergency Management, emphasized the importance of helping young people prepare for and recover from natural disasters. “I don’t think there’s an Aussie that’s immune to bushfire, flood, or cyclone threat,” she noted. McBain highlighted the significant impact natural disasters can have on youth, recalling her observations during the Black Summer bushfires of 2019 and 2020. She recognized headspace’s invaluable support during that crisis and expressed her commitment to investing in resilience initiatives like The Care and Prepare Toolkit.
The Albanese Government is allocating $200 million through Round Three of its flagship $1 billion Disaster Ready Fund to support 96 projects nationwide. This investment is aimed at enhancing community preparedness and resilience in the face of increasing natural disaster threats.
By collaborating with state and territory education sectors, headspace aims to embed disaster preparedness and mental health resilience within schools. The initiative seeks to empower children, young people, and educators, ensuring they feel confident and supported before, during, and after disasters.
Through the implementation of The Care and Prepare Toolkit, headspace is taking significant steps toward building a more resilient future for school communities throughout Australia.
