Lessons in Disaster, Sydney, September 2026

Our training strengthens the capacity of local government, health, community and emergency sectors to understand the relevance of gender stereotypes and inequalities in a disaster context.

• Understand gender and disaster and why violence against women can increase during and after disaster.
• Unpack how gender inequality during and after disaster distinctly impacts women, men and LGBTIQA+ people.
• Learn how applying an inclusive gender-lens can lead to world-leading disaster recovery.

Watch this short video to learn more about the training.

Led by expert trainers and delivered nationally by two of our 50+ expert trainers from every State and Territory. For this session, you'll be guided by Alex Grantham and Selina Thomas.

Alex Grantham (she/her) is a social worker, facilitator, researcher, and trainer with Gender and Disaster Australia. Based on Bundjalung Country in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, she brings experience in trauma-informed practice, community advocacy, and disaster recovery. Alex has worked across frontline services supporting families affected by natural disasters and draws on both professional and lived experience to inform her practice. Her work is grounded in social justice and strengthening the capacity of disaster-affected communities through a gender-informed lens.

Selina Thomas (she/her) is a practising social worker and trainer with Gender and Disaster Australia. Based in New South Wales, she brings extensive experience across mental health, gender-based violence, refugee support, and remote community services. Selina also holds postgraduate qualifications in Disaster Healthcare, Mental Health Practice, and Public Health. Her professional and volunteer experience in disaster response, including work recognised with the National Emergency Medal following the 2019-2020 bushfires, informs her intersectional and community-focused approach to disaster recovery and resilience.

Testimonials

'This was the best training I have attended in some time. Incredibly relevant and practical. Great at broadening considerations and explains ‘why.’'

'All those who work in the Emergency Management space - preparedness, response, relief or recovery - should complete this training. Incredibly thought provoking.'

What to Expect

• The training will run from 9:30am to 4:30pm.
• You'll receive a link to download and print the Participant Guide in your Eventbrite confirmation email.
• A light lunch will be provided.
• Please register via Eventbrite so your accessibility and dietary requirements are captured. Please note, we'll do our best to accommodate all requests, but we can't guarantee every request will be met.

This training is Free of Charge thanks to funding by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.