Your experience can help shape improved future health services for you and your community.
Five years after the devastating 2019-2020 bushfires, Monash University researchers are launching a major study to understand the lasting health impacts on residents across the Eurobodalla. The Community Health and Wellbeing Survey, run by Monash University’s Fire to Flourish program, aims to uncover the ongoing effects of the fires on health, wellbeing and recovery, five years on from the 2019-2020 Bushfires.
Why Your Voice Matters
The fires left a lasting mark—far beyond the immediate damage. While heavy smoke exposure and other fire-related health issues were widely reported, the full extent of long-term health impacts remains unknown. After a difficult life event, people’s wellbeing, community and environment can often change, and this survey will help identify what kinds of support people in our region actually need, prior to, during and in recovery from major bushfire events.
“After bushfires, we often focus on rebuilding infrastructure, but long-term health impacts can be overlooked,” explains Professor Jane Fisher from Monash University. “We want to understand how recovery differs for each person and what services are still needed—whether it’s mental health support, emergency preparedness or healthcare access.”
The study will explore:
- Healthcare experiences — access to Government and other support
- Support networks—from family, friends, and community groups
- Recovery journeys—how people are coping five years later
- Preparedness— for future bushfires and what support would and could make a difference
“Everyone’s experience matters—including First Nations people, older Australians, people with disabilities, and people from diverse backgrounds,” says Professor Fisher. “By sharing your insights, you can help shape future disaster responses and improve health services for regional communities.”
Why another survey?
Monash University is taking a deeper look at how the fires continue to affect health, emotional wellbeing, the environment and your community. This survey isn’t just about collecting data – it’s an opportunity for you to influence how recovery is handled in the future. It’s about ensuring the full impact on your health, the environment and your community is properly understood. Your input can help secure real support and long-term solutions that make a tangible difference. The findings will be returned to the community, providing you with hard data on what’s really happening in your area. This means you’ll have the evidence to advocate for what your community needs.
What next?
The survey invitation letters were sent to households across the Clarence Valley on the 17 March 2025. The letter has a unique log in code for two household members to complete the survey online.
The survey results will be shared back with the community in late 2025 to help guide better, long-term support programs for regional areas.
Don’t miss this chance to share your experiences and shape recovery and wellbeing in your community.
This research is part of Monash University’s Fire to Flourish program, which enables bushfire affected communities to lead their own resilience efforts.