Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bush Support Line?    1800 805 391

The main role of Bush Support Services is to provide a 24-hour telephone support and debriefing service for multi-disciplinary remote and rural health practitioners and their families.

Who Answers the Bush Support Line?

The Bush Crisis Line is answered by psychologists with rural and remote experience - service provision by psychologists guarantees quality and confidentiality.

When is Support Avaliable?

Support is usually available immediately - callers only need to leave a message if the psychologist is already assisting another caller.

Do I have to be in crisis?

No, definitely not. Pracitioners are encouraged to use the service sooner rather than later - to not wait until they feel overwhelmed.

The Bush Support Line psychologists have a good understanding of the realities of remote and rural practice.

They are able to offer practical coping strategies and survival tips to prevent burn out and to prevent crises from developing.

The Bush Support Line also offers anonymity and confidentiality - rare and precious resources in remote and rural health - it is a safe place for practitioners to talk things over before it gets out of hand.

Can I remain anonymous?

Callers may remain anonymous if they wish.

Do callers have to be members of CRANAplus?

No. The Bush Support Line is a shared resource provided for all multi-disciplinary remote health practitioners - this includes nurses, doctors, health workers, dentists, managers, mental health practitioners, specialists, allied health practitioners. And members of their families.

It doesn't matter whether practitioners provide an on-site or visiting service - they are welcome to use the Bush Crisis Line.

Is it culturally safe for indigenous health practitioners?

The service tries to be as culturally aware and culturally safe as possible for Indigenous practitioners - this is a challenge given the diversity of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander cultures. We have a Indigenous Co-Counsellor who can assist with managing cultural issues and provides valuable input to other members of the counselling team.

When did the Bush Support Line start?

From June 1997, the Bush Crisis Line service became available to remote multi-disciplinary health practitioners working in small commmunities of less than 5,000 people.

What awards has BSS received?

Bush Support Services has received the following awards:

  • 2002: Emergency Management Australia Safer Community Award for 'Innovation & Excellence'. NT award.
  • 2002: Emergency Management Australia Safer Community Award. Highly commended National Award.
  • This award was presented by the Attorney General The Hon Daryl Williams at a ceremony held at Parliament House in Canberra in October 2002.
  • 2003: The BCL & SS Coordinator Kerrie Kelly received the inaugural national award: The Aurora Award from the Council of Remote Area Nurses of Australia for her work with the BCL & SS.