Emergency Preparedness

As part of the implementation of the 2022 SHASA Bushfire and Heatwave Haven Strategy, The Tec Exec, in partnership with SHASA, and local community organisations, has established a network of community facilities and Heatwave Havens that can operate as Communications and Emergency Internet Centres when required.

These centres are designed to provide reliable internet access, communications capability, and powered safe spaces during emergencies such as bushfires, heatwaves, storms, extended power outages, or telecommunications disruptions.

Each participating facility has been upgraded with a combination of Starlink (SkyFi) satellite internet, backup power systems, cooling, air filtration, and essential infrastructure, enabling them to function as a local communications hub when standard services are unavailable.

A total of 12 community buildings will be equipped during 2026, strengthening local capacity to maintain communications, access emergency information, support coordination, and provide community connection during crisis events.

Sites marked with an asterisk (*see link to maps below) are open to the general public and are capable of operating as emergency internet and communications centres, ensuring community members can:

• Access emergency information and warnings
• Communicate with family, services, and emergency responders
• Use essential online services when mobile and fixed networks are unavailable
   

This network supports community resilience, reduces digital exclusion during emergencies, and ensures critical communications remain available when they are needed most.