Special webinar: International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2026
Disasters affect us where we live, work and connect. This year’s International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction theme, Resilience Starts at Home, reminds us that homes are not just places where disaster impacts are felt, but where resilience can be built every day. From the decisions we make about where and how we live, to the relationships that connect us with neighbours and community networks, our homes are at the heart of disaster risk reduction.
Join AIDR for a thought-provoking discussion exploring how individuals, communities and organisations can work together to create safer, more resilient futures. Through practical examples and community-led initiatives, this webinar will examine how preparedness, social connection, inclusive engagement and local action can strengthen resilience before, during and after disasters.
Moving beyond emergency kits and household plans, we'll explore the broader factors that shape risk, including housing, community networks, access to information and support, and the actions we can all take to reduce vulnerability and build resilience where it matters most. Participants will leave with fresh perspectives, practical ideas and inspiration to take action in their own homes and communities.
Target groups:
- Community members and local residents
- Community organizations, networks and local groups
- Local government and disaster management practitioners
- Civil society and NGOs
- Practitioners working on inclusion and community engagement
- Disaster risk reduction and resilience professionals
- Researchers, educators and students
Speakers:
- Adrian Sais (Resilient Kurilpa)
- Dr Elise Remling (Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Environmental Governance, University of Canberra)
- Dr Sophie Yates (Senior Research Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University)
- John Richardson (Executive Director, Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience)
- Dr Mayeda Rashid (Manager Capability Development and Engagement
Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience)
Continue the conversation
A special Q&A will also be curated on the Australian Disaster Resilience Knowledge Hub, providing an opportunity to explore the themes discussed in the webinar and continue the conversation beyond the event.