Fifteen years ago, a conversation around a kitchen table sparked an idea that would go on to make a real difference. Today, that idea is GIVIT – a Brisbane-based not-for-profit that plays a crucial role in ensuring donations reach the people who need them most in times of disaster.

Since its launch in 2009, GIVIT has helped deliver more than eight million essential items and services to Australians facing hardship. So, when Tropical Cyclone Jasper hit Far North Queensland in December 2023, the Queensland Government knew exactly who to call on. As the official donation channel, GIVIT helped mobilise support, leading to over 40,000 essential items reaching affected communities.

One of the biggest challenges was Wujal Wujal, an Indigenous community forced to evacuate after floodwaters swept through homes and essential infrastructure. Getting residents back to Country quickly and safely became a priority, and GIVIT worked closely with Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council and local not-for-profit partners to make it happen.

Through the Wujal Wujal Flood Recovery Project, GIVIT coordinated an incredible 9,192 donations, including:

  • 113 fridges and 101 washing machines

  • 277 bed bases and mattresses – giving families a comfortable place to sleep

  • 686 kitchen essentials to help households rebuild their daily routines

  • Around 800 grocery vouchers to ease the burden of restocking pantries.

Every home received much needed furniture, appliances, and cleaning supplies. But GIVIT’s support went even further – they helped establish a community laundry by providing two commercial washing machines and dryers, making everyday life just a little easier.

Thanks to this enormous effort, Wujal Wujal’s residents were able to return home within six months – a significant milestone in disaster recovery. But the impact of these donations went beyond the physical. They brought comfort, dignity, and hope. As Audrey and Iris from Cape York Partnership put it:
"GIVIT gave [us] back some belief Australia was generous. It gave the belief there is humanity out there."

GIVIT didn’t just assist with recovery – they also helped shape the future. By sharing their insights with Queensland’s Office of the Inspector-General of Emergency Management, they contributed valuable lessons to improve disaster responses in years to come.

GIVIT - Wujal Wujal

And their dedication didn’t go unnoticed. At the 2024 Queensland Resilient Australia Awards, hosted by the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience and Get Ready Queensland in partnership with Suncorp, GIVIT was recognised in the Community Award category – a testament to their life-changing work.

If your organisation is making a difference in disaster preparedness, response, or recovery, consider entering the 2025 Queensland Resilient Australia Awards. It’s an opportunity to showcase your work, inspire others, and celebrate the people and programs strengthening Queensland’s resilience. 

Learn more and apply at The Resilient Australia Awards .