We received 211 responses to the 4th and final round of the Storm and Pandemic Survey 20 April to 14 May 2023.

Of these respondents;

63% female

89% Yarra Ranges residents

12% by 15 to 34 age group

46% by 35 to 54 age group

42% by 55+ age group

Key Findings

The majority of storm recovery indicators have improved over the last two years

• Trauma / anxiety
• Green storm debris on resident properties
• Dangerous trees on resident properties
• Storm damaged homes
• Power and internet outages

The majority of homes are insured (92%) and more than half of homes (64%) have had insurance premium increases.

The majority of pandemic recovery indicators have improved over the last two years

• Mental health stemming from the pandemic
• Returning to daily activities
• Social connection
• Employment

• mental health,
• assistance with paying bills,
• assistance with accommodation

Council conducted these surveys to fully understand the impact the COVID-19 pandemic and the severe storm event on 9 June 2021 had on the community. The survey collected the views and experiences of community members over a 2 year period.

Results from this survey were used to monitor the effectiveness of Pandemic and Storm Event Recovery Programs being implemented.

Council committed funds to help drive recovery in the community. The information gathered through these surveys ensured that these funds be directed to activities and programs that support those most impacted by the pandemic and storm event.

Four surveys have been collected over a two year period.

Anyone 15 years or older, who lives, works, studies or has a strong connection to Yarra Ranges was encouraged to complete the survey.

All experiences were important, we were looking for a broad sample of people from across Yarra Ranges to complete the survey. The individual surveys were all confidential and not connected to previous survey responses.