Australian Local Government Association

Natural disasters

Natural disasters occur in Australia every year. The most frequent are bushfires, floods and cyclones/storm surges. Parts of the country are also susceptible to severe weather events, earthquakes, landslides and tsunamis.

Natural disasters cost an estimated $1.14 billion annually in 1999 dollars and cause severe disruption to communities. The number and intensity of natural disasters is forecast to increase with the effects of climate change.

Local government emergency managers need to understand the natural hazards that could impact on their community and the frameworks in which these are managed.

Bushfire

The Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre

The Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre involves a wide range of agencies,including fire and land management agencies, universities, CSIRO and Australian Government agencies.

It leads a coordinated, multifaceted research program into the social, economic and environmental aspects of bushfires.

COAG National Inquiry on Bushfire Mitigation and Management

The COAG Inquiry and the COAG response focus on opportunities to promote mitigation and to improve cooperation across jurisdictions.

Flood/cyclone/storm surge

Weather and warnings information

Weather and warnings information are issued by the Bureau of Meteorology.

Emergency Management Australia (EMA) on floods

EMA guidance on floods, flood preparation and a flood action guide.

GeoScience Australia on floods

GeoScience Australia has useful information and links on floods.

Regional Flood Mitigation Program

The Regional Flood Mitigation Program is an Australian Government initiative to assist state and territory governments and local agencies to implement priority, cost effective flood mitigation works and measures. Eligible organisations include local councils and agencies responsible for floodplain management and flood mitigation works.

Tsunami

Australian Tsunami Alert System (ATAS)

ATAS is an initiative of the Australian Government, and provides coverage for all coastal communities in Australia.

GeoScience Australia on tsunami

GeoScience Australia has useful information and links on tsunamis.

Department of Transport and Regional Services (DOTARS)

DOTARS has policy responsibility and program management for local government at national level. As such it sponsors natural disaster mitigation and relief through a variety of programs.

Natural Disaster Relief And Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA)

Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) is a framework for disaster relief assistance. It applies to bushfires, earthquakes, floods, storms, cyclones, storm surges, landslides, tsunamis, meteorite strikes, and tornadoes. It comprises a mix of grants, loans and payments.

Other Information

GeoScience Australia

GeoScience Australia issues fact sheets on occurrences such as earthquakes, landslides, tsunamis and other natural hazards.

Stories on Australian Natural Disasters

The Australian Government's Culture and Recreational Portal has links to stories on Australian natural disasters.

For information regarding local government and emergency management, please contact: