The Federal Government is establishing a new natural hazards research centre that will conduct critical natural hazards research over the next ten years.
Minister for Emergency Management David Littleproud said the work carried out at the $85 million Natural Hazards Research Australia (NHRA) would help the country move towards zero preventable deaths, better prepare communities to deal with natural disasters, and develop technological solutions to mitigate risks.
“We need research that translates into action to meet contemporary challenges faced by emergency services and communities across Australia,” the Minister said.
“Floods, cyclones and bushfires are a natural part of the Australian landscape, so it’s crucial that we continue to strengthen our resilience and response efforts to ensure the impact on lives, communities and the environment is minimised.”
NHRA will work closely with state and territory governments, emergency service agencies, universities and industry to support objectives of the Government’s National Disaster Risk Reduction Framework and recommendations of the 2020 Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements.
The Centre will work alongside and complement the new Australian Climate Service, and will also contribute to the work of the National Recovery and Resilience Agency to enhance disaster risk reduction and build more resilient communities.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Christian Porter said NHRA would deliver a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary and evidence-based research program spanning the full prevent, prepare, respond and recover cycle.
“Translating research into tangible ways to better predict bushfires and other events will help save lives,” Minister Porter said.
“As the centre builds over the next year, I look forward to new partnerships being forged that connect our excellence in research with communities, businesses and emergency services providers, to ensure that the Government’s investment translates into meaningful outcomes for Australians.
“The Government remains committed towards building resilience and reducing risks associated with natural hazard events.”
