An independent review of national natural disaster governance arrangements has been commissioned by Australia’s emergency management ministers.

The aim is to better prepare governments for the demands of increasing future natural disasters.

The review will examine how national governance arrangements could more effectively serve national natural disaster preparedness, response, recovery, resilience and long-term policy requirements.

State Minister for Emergency Services Joe Szakacs says South Australia saw one of its most significant natural disasters in history during last year’s River Murray floods.

“The outcome of the review will ensure national governance arrangements and decision making are robust and accountable to reduce disaster risk and support South Australian communities in the future.”

Due for completion by 30 November, the review has been commissioned to complement the Independent Review into Commonwealth Disaster Funding, which is being led by Mr Andrew Colvin, APM OAM.

It is led by climate change and disaster management expert Dr Robert Glasser from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute.

As part of the review, Dr Glasser will also consider establishing an authoritative disaster advisory body and expanding the remit of the National Emergency Management Ministers' Meeting - a Ministerial Council reporting to the national Cabinet.

This brings together emergency management portfolio ministers across jurisdictions to drive national cooperation and consistency on enduring strategic issues in emergency and disaster management, and resilience.

All levels of government, the community and private sector will be engaged to provide input, with further desktop reviews and research to inform the final report.

A Working Group consisting of representatives from the Australian and state and territory governments and the Australian Local Government Association is being established to support Dr Glasser. 

The review is being conducted in response to recommendations from the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt says states do better through strong cooperation and by planning ahead, not waiting for disasters to strike.

“If we are as prepared as possible at a government level, we can ensure communities get help fast.”