Improving access to Disaster Ready funding for the Indian Ocean Territories

The Indian Ocean Territories (IOT) will have greater access to funding opportunities for disaster resilience actions, following the extension of the Albanese Government’s Disaster Ready Fund (DRF) to Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

Up to $200 million is available over the next financial year for projects across Australia that build resilience, improve preparedness and reduce disaster risk – as part of a $1 billion investment over five years.

Initiatives that improve collection and sharing of data, improve land use planning, or strengthen community capabilities may be eligible for funding.

Proponents seeking to deliver projects in the IOT must review the Round Two Guidelines, and submit applications through the Western Australian Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) between 9am Monday 22 January 2024 to 5pm Wednesday 20 March 2024 (local times).

Successful projects from Round One of the DRF included upgrades to evacuation centres in remote communities during floods and other emergencies, overhauling an airport power supply system to ensure continuous power supply in critical emergencies such as cyclones, and supporting community education programs to promote natural disaster preparedness for communities.

More information can be found on NEMA’s website: www.nema.gov.au/disaster-ready-fund.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Territories, Kristy McBain MP:

“I’ve heard loud and clear from the Christmas Island and Cocos (Keeling) Island communities that more support is needed to boost their resilience and adaptability to natural disasters – which is exactly what we’re doing.

“Having travelled to the Indian Ocean Territories last year, I’ve seen their unique position first-hand, which is why extending the Disaster Ready Fund to the IOT is a positive step towards reducing their vulnerability to extreme weather events.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour MP:

“It’s so important that Christmas Island and Cocos (Keeling) Island are in the best possible position for when disasters strike, which is why extending the Disaster Ready Fund to these communities is welcome news.

“The Albanese Government is committed to supporting a proactive approach to dealing with natural disasters, which is why I look forward to working with locals as we help get their resilience projects and local-led initiatives off the ground.”