The third round of the Albanese Government's flagship $1 billion Disaster Ready Fund (DRF) kicks off today. The Fund seeks to reduce risk and build resilience in communities across Australia.
DRF Round Three will invest $200 million in projects that support Australian communities to manage the physical, economic and social impacts of future floods, cyclones, bushfires, storm surges and other natural hazards.
Works that deliver enduring benefits for communities are a particular focus this year, with $138 million earmarked for infrastructure projects.
The DRF has already invested in 351 projects to better prepare and protect communities across the country.
Minister for Emergency Management, Senator the Hon Jenny McAllister said the Disaster Ready Fund is a great opportunity for communities that want to be better prepared. The DRF will help communities undertake critical projects they may not be able to fund on their own.
"Australians know that our climate is changing, and communities can expect to experience more intense and more frequent natural disasters. It's why the Albanese Government is acting to prepare and protect communities from natural disasters and their impacts," Minister McAllister said.
"From Perth to Parkes, Darwin to Dodges Ferry, we are working with all levels of governments and other organisations to ensure communities are better prepared for future disasters.
"Previous rounds have provided funding for projects like building cyclone shelters, improving drainage systems in flood-prone areas, and trialling AI for fire detection in remote places.
"DRF infrastructure built today will make our communities more resilient, and funding for community programs will help people across the country be better prepared for future natural disasters.
"I strongly encourage organisations, local governments and states to work together to bring forward project proposals for DRF Round Three funding."
Applicants have from Wednesday 22 January to Wednesday 2 April 2025 to submit project proposals for Round Three to the Lead Agency in their state or territory. Program guidelines and contact details for Lead Agencies are available at: https://www.nema.gov.au/our-work/key-programs/disaster-ready-fund#RoundThree
Information about projects funded in previous rounds can be found see Disaster Ready Fund.
