The ACT Government is safeguarding Canberrans against the growing threats of climate change and other hazards with a new strategy to strengthen disaster resilience in the territory.
The ACT Disaster Resilience Strategy 2024-30 is the first of its kind in the Territory. It was developed following public consultation, with input from government, industry and community groups.
The strategy outlines a vision for Canberra in how the Territory can address the challenges of both natural and human influenced hazards. It takes an all-hazards approach to building resilience, including bushfires, floods, and extreme heat events, threats in the security environment and systemic risks and consequences.
Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman said the strategy recognised emergency planning required a whole-of-society approach.
"From the widespread impact of bushfires and summers storms, and threats to our health and biosecurity, Canberrans are well aware of the impacts of emergencies," said Minister Gentleman.
"Along with the threat to lives, communities and properties, the complex nature of modern emergencies threatens our governments, industries, economy and the environment.
"Disaster resilience isn't a goal to achieve; it's a capability that requires continuous development. Our strategy will guide this development by embedding disaster resilience into future policymaking."
The strategy outlines a vision for a strong, capable, connected, diverse and inclusive ACT, guided by principles of effective communication, inclusivity, shared responsibility, community-centric approaches, proactivity and adaptability.
Key features of the strategy include:
- Strengthening partnerships between government, industry and non-government organisations.
- Building community connections and promoting a culture of mutual assistance.
- Improving information accessibility about disaster risk and resilience.
- Encouraging individual and community preparedness.
- Prioritising the preservation of key assets and resources, including the natural environment.
- Placing people at the centre of recovery efforts, with targeted support for priority populations and a long-term focus.
The strategy will guide a range of actions and initiatives across government, industry and the community. Progress will be measured and reported on annually to ensure continuous improvement and adaptation.
The ACT Disaster Resilience Strategy 2024-30 is available at https://www.act.gov.au/open/act-disaster-resilience-strategy
