Australians urged to prepare for summer's disaster season

Attorney-General Robert McClelland today marked the United Nations International Day for Disaster Reduction by encouraging Australians to think about what they are doing to prepare for the upcoming disaster season.

“Last summer, Australia faced one of its worst disaster seasons in our history,” Mr McClelland said.

“While communities across Australia are continuing to recover and rebuild, the next challenge is to make sure we are all prepared for the disaster risks facing us over the coming summer.

“In the south-east of the country, experts are expecting a high risk of grassland fires due to above average levels of growth throughout the state, along with higher than average temperatures.

“In the north, we are facing a worse than average storm and cyclone season.”

Over the past two weeks, Emergency Management Australia has been holding operational briefings with police, fire authorities and emergency service agencies in every State and Territory to prepare for the disaster season.

“All levels of government are working together to prepare for the risk of natural disasters and reduce their impact on communities when they occur,” Mr McClelland said.

“While we can work with authorities to properly prepare, it’s also critical families, households and individuals do what they can to prepare themselves.

“By planning ahead, people can reduce the risk of injury and damage to property.

“The Australian Government produces free community awareness and education publications which provide background information and advice on preparing for and coping with major hazards.”

“This includes emergency action guides on dealing with cyclones, floods, storms, fires and other hazards.

“I encourage people to visit the Emergency Management Australia website and see what is available.”