An elected Dutton-Littleproud Government will commit $64.5 million to Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) so it can continue to deliver immediate and coordinated recovery responses to natural disasters across Australia.
Shadow Minister for Emergency Management Senator Perin Davey said Disaster Relief Australia has a proven model for rapid deployment of volunteer teams to commence clean-up and recovery efforts in communities impacted by bushfires, cyclones or floods.
“Since its establishment by veterans in 2016, Disaster Relief Australia has become a crucial part of the nation’s disaster response efforts, working with the National Emergency Management Agency to utilise the unique skills and experience of the veteran workforce and therefore reducing the reliance on the Australian Defence Force,” Senator Davey said.
“The Coalition’s funding commitment builds on our $38.3 million in 2022 which has enabled Disaster Relief Australia to grow to more than 5,500 volunteers and gives the organisation funding certainty.”
Disaster Relief Australia Chief Executive Officer, David Smith AM, CSC, DSM said the new funding would give the organisation certainty to build on existing capabilities, increase volunteer numbers and develop and deliver disaster preparedness programs in at-risk communities to enhance resilience, increase speed of response and lower recovery costs.
“This funding commitment gives us certainty to keep supporting our communities and our veteran volunteers who are playing such a vital role in disaster recovery,” Mr Smith said.
“Most recently we have deployed teams across Southeast Queensland following Tropical Cyclone Alfred providing key support in local government areas from Redlands, to the Scenic Rim and Gold Coast.”
The Disaster Relief Australia National Operations Centre recently established in the Brisbane suburb of Hendra has played a substantial role in enabling fast and coordinated deployment of volunteers.
Liberal National Candidate for Brisbane, Trevor Evans, recently toured the facility with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton and said it was amazing to see the coordination and logistics of the response.
Senator Davey also highlighted the valuable link Disaster Relief Australia can provide for veterans as they transition from a life of service to civilian life.
“Disaster Relief Australia’s work aligns with recommendations from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran’s Suicide by providing veterans with training and service opportunities giving them a positive sense of purpose within the community and links to corporate networks,” Senator Davey said.
“Providing funding certainty for Disaster Relief Australia provides certainty for veterans and their families and the communities and associated services that they help though vital support at the most difficult of times.”