Cyclone season home preparation for northern Australia

Who this is for

Households in northern and coastal Queensland, the Northern Territory and northern Western Australia face the highest cyclone risk. The official season generally runs from November to April, and homes in these regions are built to wind classifications that assume maintenance is kept up.

Before the season

Have these checked while there is time to book trades:

• Roof sheeting, screws, ridge capping and tie-downs
• Gutters and downpipes clear so heavy rain drains away
• Trees and branches near the house assessed and pruned
• Window protection, screens or shutters in working order
• Garage and roller doors secure and able to close fully
• Generator, if you have one, serviced and safely installed

When a cyclone watch or warning is issued

Store or tie down outdoor furniture, pot plants, bins and play equipment. Fill containers with drinking water, charge devices, fuel vehicles and check your emergency kit. Follow the Bureau of Meteorology and your local disaster management group, and know your evacuation zone.

After the cyclone passes

Wait for the all-clear. Stay away from fallen power lines, damaged buildings and floodwater. Photograph damage for insurance before cleaning up. The SES on 132 500 can help with urgent temporary repairs such as tarping.

Arrange permanent repairs

Roofers, glaziers, arborists, electricians and builders are in high demand after a cyclone. A clear request with photos, the extent of damage and access details helps suitable Fixers prioritise and quote accurately.