Emergency Relief Assistance 

Serving Our People (SOP)ded in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 global pandemic, a moment that profoundly shaped our identity and mission. From those early days of uncertainty and isolation, SOP emerged with a clear purpose; to serve anyone and everyone in need, no matter the odds. 

SOP exists to meet people where they are, responding to crises with practical, immediate solutions. Whether addressing food insecurity, housing instability, emergency relief, crisis support, youth empowerment, and mental health support or the impacts of natural disasters; our 21 tailored programs provide direct, frontline support to those who need it most. 

About the Program 

Emergency Relief Assistance provides essential support to individuals and families experiencing financial crisis or hardship. Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services (DSS), it offers people the opportunity to meet their urgent needs, reduce financial stress, and build long-term resilience. 

Services include: 

• Emergency food and grocery support 

• Assistance with medication costs 

• Clothing, bedding, and essential household items 

• Support for people affected by natural disasters 

• Referrals to counselling, housing, and financial support services 

All assistance is delivered with dignity, respect, and confidentiality, ensuring every person is treated with compassion and care. 

Who Is It For? 

This program supports anyone facing unexpected financial or personal crisis, including: 

• Individuals or families unable to pay essential bills such as rent, electricity, or groceries 

• People who have lost work or income unexpectedly 

• Those affected by domestic violence, mental health challenges, or housing instability 

To be eligible, individuals must demonstrate that they are currently unable, or at imminent risk of being unable, to meet basic living costs. 

Emergency Relief During Natural Disasters 

When natural disasters occur, affected individuals and families can access additional support through our Natural Disaster Relief Assistance. This can be applied for either as a stand-alone service or as an extension of existing Emergency Relief support. 

SOP is a nationally recognised, government-funded organisation standing at the forefront of disaster response. SOP played a major role in recovery efforts following the COVID-19 Pandemic, Queensland and Northern NSW floods, Gold Coast storm recovery, and Cyclone Alfred.