December 3rd, 2022Prepare for disaster: a federal call to community

The Australian Government is inviting councils and community organisations in the Ballarat electorate to participate in the Disaster Ready Fund (DRF) consultation process.

The first round of the DRF is set to commence in early 2023 to help communities better prepare for future disasters, after passing the Parliament in recent days.

Up to $1 billion over five years will be made available under the DRF, with states and territories able to apply for the first $200 million to fund projects that help reduce disaster risk and build resilience to be delivered from 1 July 2023.

Federal Member for Ballarat, Catherine King said the DRF is an important milestone in the implementation of the Government’s disaster resilience initiatives.

“The Australian Government’s commitment to better invest in disaster risk reduction is underscored by our billion dollar DRF, which will make vital funding available for projects that aim to limit the devastating impacts of natural disasters,” Ms King said.

Recent flooding events across the Ballarat electorate highlight the need for investment in reducing the physical, economic and social impacts of disasters.

“It is clear that the frequency and intensity of natural disasters is increasing. The DRF will support councils and community organisations in our region to reduce the vulnerability of our communities to natural disasters and limit the impact that these disasters may have,” Ms King said.

We all have a role in being better prepared for natural hazards, and this is your opportunity to have your say on the DRF. Everyone is encourage to participate in the Designing the Disaster Ready Fund Survey, available at nema.gov.au/programs/disaster-ready-fund.

More information about the first Round of the DRF will be published on the National Emergency Management Agency’s website.