Media release
Tuesday 15 September 2026
Queensland communities will be able to access coordinated volunteer support sooner after disasters, following new insurance arrangements that remove a key barrier to activating recovery volunteers.
Earlier this year the Queensland Government introduced streamlined personal injury WorkCover arrangements for EV Crew – Emergency Recovery Volunteers, Volunteering Queensland’s statewide recovery volunteering program. The first full 12-month policy has now been signed for the 2026–2027 year.
Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy said the new arrangements provided greater certainty for volunteers, councils and organisations involved in community recovery.
“Stronger support for volunteers means stronger and more resilient communities across Queensland,” Minister Leahy said.
“By removing barriers to activation, we are making it easier for disaster volunteers to get involved sooner and support local recovery efforts when they are needed most.
“The Crisafulli Government is committed to backing volunteers and strengthening the systems that support them, helping ensure Queenslanders can access coordinated support sooner after disaster strikes.”
Volunteering Queensland today launched its EV Crew 2026–27 disaster season campaign at Queensland Parliament House, encouraging Queenslanders to register now as a volunteer ahead of disaster season.
Volunteering Queensland CEO Jane Hedger said history has shown Queenslanders are incredibly generous when disaster strikes and want to pitch in to help.
“Volunteers play an extraordinary role in Queensland communities. These changes are about turning that goodwill into support when communities need it most.”
“The challenge isn’t finding people who want to help – it’s making sure there is a safe and coordinated way for them to contribute,” Ms Hedger said.
“EV Crew provides the connection between people who want to help and the organisations leading recovery efforts on the ground.
“We are very excited to be partnering with RACQ, who are also there when Queenslanders need them, to grow the capacity of EV Crew, and with the State Government to protect our volunteers when they are needed most.
“EV Crew volunteers don’t need specialist skills or training to make a difference. You just need to be willing to help.”
Once an affected area is declared safe, EV Crew supports recovery activities such as community clean-up, sorting donated goods, deliveries, administration, and animal welfare aid.
Queenslanders are encouraged to register with EV Crew before disaster strikes, helping build a ready pool of volunteers who can be mobilised to support their local communities during recovery.
To learn more about registering for EV Crew, visit EV Crew – Volunteering Queensland. Councils and organisations interested in becoming an EV Crew partner can also find information and resources on the website.