After‑Action Connection

After-Action Connection is a practical, stigma‑free support pathway for all first responders

advance first aid

What is After‑Action Connection

After‑Action Connection is a simple, human support pathway for anyone who has responded to an incident — whether you’re a trained first responder, a volunteer, or a community member who stepped up because of your first aid training.

It provides a relaxed and confidential place to talk, connect, and reset after confronting or emotionally demanding events.

How it Works

Initial Connection

 

Talk or text one‑to‑one with an experienced first responder in a safe, confidential call.

 

 

After Action Room

 

A small-group debrief space to share experiences, normalise reactions, and reconnect.

 

 

1‑to‑1 Mentoring (Coming Soon)

 

Long‑term personal support to help you stay steady, confident, and resilient.

 

EXPLORE THE SUPPORT PATHWAY

 Start With a Real Conversation

 Your journey begins with a brief one‑to‑one call. You’ll speak with an experienced first responder who understands what it’s like to face difficult, high‑pressure or emotionally loaded situations.
This call gives you space to talk through what happened, get reassurance, and understand your next best steps.

  • Confidential and supportive
  • Speak with someone who truly “gets it”
  • No pressure to share more than you want
  • Practical guidance and next steps

 

A Safe Space to Debrief, Connect, and Reset

 

The After‑Action Room is a small‑group debrief space, guided by trauma‑aware facilitators with real‑world experience.
It’s not therapy — it’s a structured conversation that helps you off‑load, gain clarity, and hear from others who’ve been through similar experiences.

 

 

✔ Confidential and supportive environment
✔ Guided by experienced responders
✔ Suitable for professionals and trained bystanders
✔ No judgment, no jargon, no pressure

 

 Ongoing Support When You Need It

A mentoring pathway for long‑term resilience and steady support.

✔ Regular check‑ins
✔ Resilience skill‑building
✔ Practical coping strategies

 

 

Who Can Access After-Action Connection?

PARAMEDICS

 LIFE GUARDS & SURF RESCUE

SES & OTHER VOLUNTEERS

FIRST AIDERS

ANYONE IMPACTED
AFTER RESPONDING

MILITARY

POLICE

FIRE & RESCUE

BYSTANDERS WHO ASSISTED

WHY CONNECTION HELPS

 

“Connection reduces the load. You don’t have to carry tough moments alone.”

Talking openly after difficult events — especially with people who understand the responder mindset — helps reduce emotional strain and prevents experiences from becoming overwhelming.
Connection normalises reactions, promotes resilience, and supports both professional and community responders in returning to baseline.

FAQ's

Do I have to share details of the incident?

No. You choose what you share. Many people only talk about how they felt or what’s worrying them.

Is this therapy?

 

No. It’s a peer‑led support space grounded in practical responder experience.

 

 

Is it confidential?

 

Yes — confidentiality is a core pillar of the program.

 

Who runs the sessions?

 Experienced responders trained in trauma‑aware communication and mental health support.

 

 

Can community members attend?

 

Yes. Anyone who responded — professionally or as a bystander — is welcome.

 

 

How long are the sessions?

Connection Calls: ~15 minutes.
After‑Action Rooms: ~45–60 minutes.

 

What does it cost?

Nothing.  These sessions are a free service to support our first responder community

Ready to talk to someone who gets it?