Lessons in Disaster, Sydney, 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 Sarah Drury and Selina Thomas.

Sarah Drury (she/her) specialises in primary prevention of violence, men's behaviour change, and adult education. She is passionate about fighting for the rights of communities that are under attack within oppressive systems, in order to improve the social conditions for all. Sarah loves working creatively as a community capacity builder, caseworker, educator and facilitator in both mainstream and LGBTQSB+ communities to help build strength, solidarity, safety and hope in the process of change.

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.

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.