Australian Government: International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR)
Today marks International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), a significant occasion that reflects on the importance of creating safer and more resilient communities. First established by the United Nations General Assembly, this day is dedicated to raising awareness of initiatives that reduce the impact of disasters and supports the global Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
Our approach to disaster risk reduction
This day holds particular importance as we play a central role in coordinating Australia's approach to disaster risk reduction. Guided by the Australian National Disaster Risk Reduction Framework and the National Strategy for Disaster Resilience, our work is anchored in the priorities outlined by the Sendai Framework:
- understanding disaster risk
- strengthening disaster risk governance
- investing in resilience
- enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response and recovery.
Our 2030 vision for DRR is a shared project, co-created by all levels of government and community partners. By fostering these collaborations, we ensure that Australians are better equipped to make risk-aware decisions. While each state and territory have its own disaster recovery policies, we can enable a unified approach that benefits all Australians.
What today means for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)
Over the past few days, the G20 Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group convened in South Africa. The G20 DRR Working Group aims to integrate risk reduction measures into public and private sector investment decisions and policy making to reduce existing risk, prevent the creation of new risk and, ultimately, build resilient economies, societies, and natural systems.
This gathering of representatives provides a valuable platform for Australia to reaffirm its commitment to the Sendai Framework, share our progress, and learn from the experiences of others. We are continuing to advance global strategies for disaster prevention and recovery, ensuring our national vision is aligned with international best practice.
On this International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, we acknowledge the ongoing efforts across Australia to reduce disaster risk. Through strong partnerships and global engagement, we can continue to build a safer, more resilient Australia today, and into the future.