Lessons in Disaster, Newcastle, March 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.

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 Selina Thomas and Steve O'Malley.

Selina Thomas (she/her) is a practising social worker with extensive experience in the mental health system, and gender based violence services. She has worked internationally in refugee programs, and in remote communities which are experiences that heavily shape her cross-cultural and intersectional approach. She also holds post-graduate qualifications in Disaster Healthcare, Mental Health Practise, and Public Health.

She has experience in frontline disaster response through both professional and volunteer roles, and was awarded the National Emergency Medal for her work during the 2019-2020 fires. Selina has also had active roles in disaster planning (including COVID-19) implementing strategies to support and engage particularly vulnerable people, such as rough sleepers. She endeavours to bring these diverse experiences, and the voices of people often overlooked in disaster planning and response, to her work with GADAus.

Steve O’Malley AFSM (he/him) is a Senior Leading Firefighter. An operational firefighter for more than 30 years, Steve is an experienced trainer and passionate presenter on gender, diversity and inclusion and passionate advocate for a more equitable and fairer society for all. A long-standing presenter and advocate for prevention of violence against women, as well as the Pat Cronin Foundation’s ‘End the Coward Punch’ campaign, Steve has developed a reputation for driving critical cultural change, influencing policy, and achieving high levels of institutional support.

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 5.00pm.
• 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.