Critical Incident Management

A critical incident involving a student is distressing for families, friends and staff.

The effective management of any critical incident is important. Not only is it important to assist and support affected parties, but it is also important to ensure that the situation is not worsened through mismanagement.

Participants will gain valuable insights into the best practices for handling critical incidents, including the immediate response, effective communication, and the importance of a coordinated approach. The session will cover strategies to prepare for potential crises, minimize risks, and ensure the safety and well-being of all involved. Attendees will learn how to respond to incidents in a way that is compassionate and supportive while maintaining professionalism and adhering to institutional policies.

Who Should Attend?

This session is ideal for student support staff, counselors, administrators, and anyone involved in managing critical incidents or providing support within educational institutions. By attending, you will enhance your skills in critical incident management and learn practical self-care strategies to better support both your students and yourself.

Join us online for this comprehensive session to build your capacity to manage critical incidents effectively and foster a supportive, resilient educational environment.

Date & Time

  • Tuesday 24 September 2024
  • 3pm – 4.30pm (AEST)

Cost

  • ISANA Members: $20
  • ISANA Non-Member Organisational PD Nominee: $30
  • Non-Members: $50

Recording & session handouts:

Facilitator

Desma Smith is the Associate Director, International Student Advisory and Support at Swinburne. With over 25 years in International Education working at Canadian High Commission; DIAC student policy; global mobility; student support; Desma has facilitated workshops and written submissions for ISANA; Government roundtables; consultative stages of policy development; created policies in HEd; had various consultant roles and tutored critical incident management.

Desma has been Subject Matter Expert on award winning teams managing risk and safe communities and a member of Swinburne’s Incident Management Team. In 2021, a Swinburne led consortium won a Best Practice award in the IEAA Excellence Awards for their Food Delivery Driver Training program. Currently sits on a working group with VicRoads and the Department of Transport developing safety and information materials for gig workers.

Desma offsets work tensions as an obsessed dragon boat racer represented 6 times internationally in the Australian Auroras DBS (dragon boat squad) and has just returned from a successful Club Crew World Championships in Italy.