Summary
This is Australia's key policy document for international disaster risk reduction. (2009, 42pp)
Description
Australia is at the forefront of international efforts to encourage greater investment in disaster risk reduction. Our own experience in managing the multitude of natural hazards we face–drought, bushfires, cyclones and floods–has taught us much about how to better mitigate and prepare for these events.
In January 2005, just three weeks after the Indian Ocean Tsunami, Australia was one of 168 UN member states to adopt the Hyogo Framework for Action, which is a blueprint for global disaster reduction efforts. We share the conviction that urgent and sustained actions are needed to reduce the social, economic and environmental impacts of disasters.
Investing in a Safer Future: a Disaster Risk Reduction Policy for the Australian Aid Program, provides the framework for the full integration of disaster risk reduction into Australia's aid program. The policy supports the significant efforts of partner governments, UN agencies, civil society and others to implement the Hyogo Framework. The policy is crucial if we are to help developing countries and communities minimise the impact of disaster.