South Australia is set to enhance its resilience and preparedness against future natural disasters with the announcement of 23 local projects under Round One of the government’s newly established Disaster Ready Fund. 

The first round of funding will contribute nearly $47 million to disaster prevention efforts, with joint investments from the Federal, State, and delivery partners. 

The Disaster Ready Fund aims to provide long-term national funding for mitigation measures to safeguard communities from natural disasters. The funds will support the construction of crucial infrastructure such as flood levees, seawalls, and hazard warning systems. 

State and Territory governments collaborated with local councils and community groups to submit project applications aimed at improving mitigation and resilience. 

Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt highlighted South Australia’s exposure to various natural disasters in recent years, including floods, storms, and bushfires. 

“With ongoing funding for disaster recovery and resilience programs in areas like the Riverlands, it is crucial that we proactively build defences across the entire state,” Minister Watt stated. 

“As a country, we invest far more in recovering from disasters than we do defending against them, and that mentality has got to change.” 

Minister Watt explained that the government’s commitment to disaster reduction and mitigation involves better planning for the future, ensuring communities nationwide are well-prepared, less exposed, and capable of recovering effectively. 

Related: Political brawl erupts over NSW’s federal disaster funding 

Minister for Emergency Services Joe Szakacs expressed that the funded projects will significantly improve the preparedness of all communities in South Australia. 

“In light of the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters due to climate change, it is paramount that communities are adequately prepared,” Minister Szakacs affirmed. 

“These grants demonstrate the solid commitment from the Federal and State governments to ensure that South Australia is better prepared for natural disasters, allowing for quicker responses and recoveries.” 

The Disaster Ready Fund reinforces the government’s dedication to enhancing Australia’s preparedness for natural disasters. Over the past year, the government has provided over $2.7 billion in recovery and resilience programs and payments to support individuals and communities affected by natural disasters. 

Eliza Sayon

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Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.

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