Published on:
Monday, 4 November, 2024_jpg_1280_300.webp)
The report of the Independent Review of Commonwealth Disaster Funding (the Colvin Review) released on 25 October 2024 has highlighted the increasing emergency management pressures on Local Government. It calls for Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments to build Local Government capability through targeted investment in preparedness, risk reduction and resilience.
Currently, the only available all hazard State Government funding stream for local preparedness is the All-West Australians Reducing Emergencies (AWARE) grant program, which does not meet this need.
WALGA is calling on the State Government to implement a more robust and flexible funding program of $9 million per year that better supports Local Government emergency management capabilities.
The Colvin Review also emphases the financial risks Local Governments face during disaster recovery and recommends restructuring the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) for more streamlined application and better targeting of resources. It highlights the cost-benefits of investing in betterment.
WALGA’s 2025 State Election priority for the State Government is to establish a dedicated betterment fund to enhance infrastructure resilience and deliver financial savings for all levels of government in future disasters.
The Australian Government has indicated that it intends to consult broadly in considering its response to the Review.
Read WALGA’s Summary of the Colvin Review, aligned with our Emergency Management priorities.
Currently, the only available all hazard State Government funding stream for local preparedness is the All-West Australians Reducing Emergencies (AWARE) grant program, which does not meet this need.
WALGA is calling on the State Government to implement a more robust and flexible funding program of $9 million per year that better supports Local Government emergency management capabilities.
The Colvin Review also emphases the financial risks Local Governments face during disaster recovery and recommends restructuring the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) for more streamlined application and better targeting of resources. It highlights the cost-benefits of investing in betterment.
WALGA’s 2025 State Election priority for the State Government is to establish a dedicated betterment fund to enhance infrastructure resilience and deliver financial savings for all levels of government in future disasters.
The Australian Government has indicated that it intends to consult broadly in considering its response to the Review.
Read WALGA’s Summary of the Colvin Review, aligned with our Emergency Management priorities.
