Preparing for the unpredictable: communities reducing disaster risk

In recent years, Australia has been battered by catastrophic bushfires and floods exacerbated by climate change. It is also clear from these shock events that community organised actions fulfil an essential role in disaster preparation, response and recovery. With science warning that the intensity and frequency of fires, floods and other disasters will only increase in future, what lessons can be learnt from communities already impacted by this ‘new normal’? A panel of esteemed community organisers and researchers share crucial new findings from the SEI research project ‘Self-organising Systems to Minimise Future Disaster Risk’ in recognition of the UN’s International Disaster Risk Reduction Day on 13 October. Learn firsthand insights from their collaboration with affected communities in the Northern Rivers, Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains. The research illuminates the essential role of spontaneous community organising in times of disaster underpinned by strong local knowledge and connection. The discussion explores how government and emergency services can effectively support this role and how the most meaningful community actions can often go unnoticed. Learn more about the event here.

Timestamps

8.47 Impact of climate-driven disasters on communities

19.29 What would support communities?

24.51 Recognising the role of local knowledge

31.48 What do communities want from government and agencies?

Speakers

Scott Webster, Researcher, Sydney Environment Institute

Mary Lyons-Buckett, Community Fellow, Hawkesbury

Rebecca McNaught, Plan C

David Schlosberg (Chair), Director, Sydney Environment Institute

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