EXTREME WEATHER STRESS RESHAPING HOW AUSTRALIANS LIVE
LIFELINE AUSTRALIA
Key Facts:- 53% of Australians report making major life changes due to extreme weather stress.
- 61% feel anxious about extreme weather, with 42% saying it affects their daily life.
- One in five Gen Z Australians have changed their career or job plans due to extreme weather concerns.
More than half of Australians have made at least one significant life change because of stress or anxiety linked to extreme weather, according to new research.
The Extreme Weather & Suicidality Report commissioned by Lifeline Australia in partnership with NRMA Insurance, draws on a national survey of more than 1,500 Australians, including boosted samples in flood and cyclone affected communities.
The paper found 53% of Australians had changed where they live or work, withdrawn from social activities, or given up hobbies because of stress related to extreme weather events. Nine in ten (91%) were concerned extreme weather events will become more frequent or severe, while 61% reported feeling stressed or anxious.
Lifeline Australia Chief Executive Officer Graham Strong said the findings highlight the importance of building resilience before disaster strikes and staying engaged long after.
“For many people, extreme weather sits alongside other pressures such as cost-of-living stress, housing uncertainty and caring responsibilities – and the combination of these stressors can wear people down over time,” Mr Strong said.
“That’s why resilience needs to be built early and supported consistently, not just in response to a single event.
“When disasters hit, Lifeline’s trained phone and digital Crisis Supporters are there for people across Australia, while local Lifeline Centres work on the ground to strengthen community resilience, provide emotional first aid and support recovery.”
Lifeline Australia Chief Research Officer Dr Anna Brooks said the research indicates extreme weather-related stress is becoming a persistent feature of everyday life, with potential longer‑term impacts if left unaddressed.
“We’re seeing some people pull back from activities that support good mental health – things like gardening, community sport, creative hobbies and regular catchups up with friends – particularly in areas experiencing repeated disruption, Dr Brooks said.
“This can erode important personal, social and community factors that help reduce stress and protect mental health. It’s why early, accessible support matters – and this must include programs and services which help people stay connected, manage stress and maintain the routines and relationships that support wellbeing.”
Since 2020, Lifeline and NRMA Insurance have partnered to help Australians mentally and emotionally prepare for and recover from extreme weather events. The ongoing partnership supports a shared commitment to enhance mental health preparedness and help build more resilient communities.
NRMA Insurance Chief Executive Officer Julie Batch said the findings highlight there is more to be done to help Australians prepare not just physically for extreme weather, but mentally as well.
“The impact of extreme weather goes beyond physical damage. As an insurer we see firsthand the emotional and psychological toll it takes on individuals and communities long after an event has passed,” she said.
“This research reinforces that severe weather preparedness must include practical, accessible mental health support, so people are better equipped to manage stress and know where to seek help.
“That’s why NRMA Insurance partnered with Lifeline to develop dedicated content within Lifeline’s Online Support Toolkit, giving at-risk communities easy access to tools that can help build resilience before, during and after a disaster.”
Research Director at 89 Degrees East, Dr Rebecca Huntley, said the findings point to a deeper shift in how Australians are relating to risk and uncertainty.
“What the data suggests is a society adjusting to repeated disruption, where concern about extreme weather is increasingly shaping everyday decision-making and community life,” Dr Huntley said.
“In this context, how communities are supported to manage uncertainty, maintain connection and plan for ongoing disruption becomes an important part of longer-term adaptation.”
Lifeline is committed to supporting any Australian through their toughest moments and providing them with the most appropriate care.
If you, or someone you know are feeling overwhelmed, we encourage you to connect with Lifeline in the way you feel most comfortable.
You can phone Lifeline to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, or chat to Lifeline online (all services are available 24/7). If you’re struggling to know where to turn, Lifeline’s Support Toolkit can help you find the right support at the right time.
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About us:
ABOUT LIFELINE
For over 60 years, Lifeline has been connecting with Australians, offering free and confidential one-to-one crisis support for people who are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping. Trained Crisis Supporters listen without judgement 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As well as operating the 13 11 14 telephone line within 43 Centres around the nation, the organisation also delivers 24/7 crisis text, webchat and a Support Toolkit. Lifeline expects to respond to over 1.5 million requests for support this year, creating an average of 120 safety plans a day to keep a person experiencing suicidal ideation safe. Visit lifeline.org.au/donate to support Lifeline.
ABOUT NRMA INSURANCE
NRMA Insurance is Australia’s most trusted insurance brand1, helping more than 3 million Australians protect what matters. Help has been at the heart of NRMA Insurance since its beginnings in 1925 as a member-only company that provided motor insurance policies to the first drivers in NSW. NRMA Insurance has grown to become a national brand that helps people protect their cars, homes and businesses. It has a proud history of working with communities to build their resilience against extreme weather and keep people safer on the road. NRMA Insurance helps Australians understand their local risks and prepare for extreme weather through its Help Nation initiative.
NRMA Insurance is backed by IAG, Australia and New Zealand’s largest general insurer.
Contact details:
0408 407 376 (NO SMS)