If you’re having trouble opening the Get ePrepared PDF documents in your internet browser, try these steps:

1. Use the download icon in your browser: 
   • When you open a document in your internet browser, there will often be a small ‘Save’ or ‘Download’ icon at the top of the screen. This is usually an icon that looks like an arrow pointing downwards, or a floppy disk. 
   • Click the icon, and you should see your downloaded PDF in a small pop-up. Click the file name to open it.
   • If you can’t find the file, try checking your ‘Downloads’ folder. 
2. Check if the PDF has already downloaded: 
   • Your file may have already downloaded to your device. Look for it in your ‘Downloads’ folder.
   • To find the ‘Downloads’ folder: 
     • On a Windows computer: Click the folder icon at the bottom of the screen and find ‘Downloads’ on the left side.
     • On a Mac computer: Click the Finder icon (it looks like a smiley face) and look for ‘Downloads’ in the menu on the left.
     • On a smartphone or tablet: Open your ‘Files’ app or your ‘Downloads’ folder.

We acknowledge that households and families across Australia are unique and varied. When legally preparing for a disaster, you might choose to work through Get ePrepared steps as an individual, a couple, a family, or with anyone else in your life who you trust.

When preparing for or evacuating during a disaster, some people choose to leave their important documents and belongings with trusted family and friends. When storing these documents electronically, you may wish to share access with these same people.

It is important to keep this information safe, by using precautions such as two-factor authentication, strong passwords, and limited access to these documents. Take a look at these online resources to help you learn how to remain safe online:

• https://www.cyber.gov.au/protect-yourself   
• https://goodthingsaustralia.org/learn-resource/smithfamily-tipsheet-being-safe-online/

When disasters occur, people need safety, shelter, food, and access to communications. As time goes on, and the immediate threat recedes, people start to need legal help. It is important to get legal help early so you can resolve legal problems more quickly, before they escalate.

Often people will need legal help for problems they are facing with their insurance coverage and claims, their utilities providers for gas, electricity, and water, or negotiations with neighbours about fencing, property, or leases. Sometimes, you might just have a question about your entitlements, and it can be helpful to get advice before taking action. You might also be dealing with a financial problem, or an issue with your employer. Other times, it might be about accessing and understanding your entitlements to government assistance packages, or navigating a scenario where you’ve been scammed or had fraudulent activity happen to you.

If you’re dealing with a legal problem because of, or made worse by, a disaster, you might be eligible for free legal help from Justice Connect. Making an online application is the quickest and best way to apply for free legal help. We help individuals, community organisations and small businesses/primary producers.

Having your electronic copies certified can give you the best chance your documents will be accepted after a disaster. Many government authorities and professional services require certified copies of important documents, such as identifying documents, when you make applications with them.

You can learn how to get documents certified here: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/how-to-get-certified-copies-documents?context=22591

If you don’t have certified copies, some authorities may still accept your application. You will need to contact each authority separately to find out what exceptions they make if you don’t have certified copies.

Privacy and security are important for everyone, in every aspect of their life.

Many individuals and businesses spend a lot of time ensuring they feel safe and trust where they store their information and documents. This is made easier when we understand how and where we can store things safely.

When using any online solution, there will always be a risk that it will be hacked. However, this risk can be minimised by taking these precautions:

• Using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) so that you are the only person who can access your files.
• Keeping your devices updated with the latest software and security systems, so that you are protected against malicious software and other threats or security vulnerabilities.
• Choose a trusted storage solution that is known for its security measures. There are many popular and free options available. You can learn more about the pros and cons of different storage solutions in our factsheet.

We’re here to help you learn how to do this for yourself, and for you to help others around you.

This website is an interactive learning tool to help you practice the steps to create electronic copies of your important documents, in case you need them in an emergency.

In using this website, you’ll learn how to choose a storage solution that meets your needs, how to take a digital photo, how to use a scanner, and how to upload your electronic copies of your documents to your chosen storage solution.

These skills will increase your digital confidence and ability to use online services and platforms.

When disasters strike, legal problems often follow, and you want to make things as smooth as possible during emergencies.

Disasters can cause and increase a wide range of issues, many of which might involve the law.

Being able to quickly access essential legal documents when you need them most can help you feel more prepared and protected, making it easier to navigate any legal problems that might arise.

If your documents are lost, damaged, or you can’t find them quickly, it can add unnecessary stress to an already difficult situation.

That’s why taking the time now to store electronic copies of your documents and ensuring that you and your trusted contacts can access them is a smart way to support yourself in the future.

This can help you feel more secure and better equipped to handle disasters and emergencies.