Disaster Resilience
Following its 13th February 2011 meeting, the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) adopted the National Disaster Resilience Strategy.
Recent natural disasters have had a profound effect on the Australian community. All Australians have been affected by the tragic loss of life and widespread devastation experienced in many communities.
COAG acknowledged the tremendous efforts of volunteers, emergency services personnel and the Australian Defence Force in responding to the disasters, with many crossing borders to help out.
COAG recognised the challenges facing many communities in the rebuilding process that lies ahead and welcomed the generous package of assistance the Commonwealth and affected States and Territories have provided for individuals, businesses, local government and the restoration of infrastructure following recent natural disasters.
To improve Australia’s ability to withstand and recover from future disasters, COAG adopted the National Strategy for Disaster Resilience and agreed to take immediate steps to implement it.
The Strategy focuses on the shared responsibility of governments, business and communities in preparing for, and responding to, disasters. It sets out concrete steps governments at all levels can take to reduce risks posed by natural disasters and better support communities to recover from disasters. Other actions will include steps to support improved risk-based planning decisions, the take-up of insurance and the provision and construction of resilient infrastructure.
The National Disaster Resilience Strategy is available on the Council of Australia Governments (COAG) website.
Following decisions at its 30 April 2009 meeting, Council of Australian Governments (COAG) agreed to a range of measures to improve Australia’s natural disaster arrangements. Given the expected increased regularity and severity of natural disasters arising from extreme weather events, governments recognise that a national, coordinated and cooperative effort is required to strengthen Australia’s capacity to withstand and recover from emergencies and disasters.
- COAG Dec 2009 Disaster Resilience Statement
- Disaster Recovery
- Community Resilience
- FaHCSIA, through its social policy responsibility, supports communities to build capacity and resilience through a range of programs and services.