Salvos urge to dig deep after Debbie

The Salvation Army urges Australians to support its disaster appeal for those affected by Debbie and its devastating aftermath.

While most of the immediate clean-up work has been done, including clearing roads, restoring power and reopening schools, the Salvation Army, which began its emergency recovery work the day after the cyclone hit on March 27, is still receiving new requests for help.

Major Neil Dickson, the Salvos' communications and fundraising director in Queensland, said the public's support is needed more than ever as demand for services hits critical levels.

"The cyclone and subsequent floods have devastated communities across Queensland and NSW, with many residents displaced and their properties severely damaged or destroyed," Major Dickson said. "These communities require major support to rebuild during this challenging time.

"The Salvation Army will do all it can to help these communities get back on their feet. We are committed to helping those affected now and for the long haul, but we can only do this with the generous support of the public."

Salvos' strategic disaster manager Kim Lee said charity is at the frontline of the recovery effort.

"The reality of the devastation people have experienced is further setting in and people are finding themselves in more difficult circumstances after the long haul of clean-up and as time goes on," Mr Lee said.

"Also, for some people the adrenaline has worn off and they are now feeling more desperate and becoming more motivated to ask for our help.

"Our personnel on the ground are reporting that people more severely impacted by Cyclone Debbie are now presenting for help and that they are able to spend more time with them to hear their stories and provide further assistance and follow up."

The Salvos are exploring new outreach activities in communities in NSW it has been unable to reach until now, such as Mullumbimby and the top end of Byron Shire as well as Lismore.