4 years ago
DISASTER GROUPS WELCOME NEW FUNDS SECURED BY LABOR
Senator Murray Watt
Charities, insurers and local governments have welcomed new disaster funding secured by Labor, as part of the Government’s Emergency Response Fund.
Labor amendments secured an extra $50 million per year for disaster preparedness, including the construction of flood levees, cyclone shelters, fire breaks and other infrastructure to shield homes and businesses from future disasters.
It’s clear that investment in disaster preparedness will have a positive impact on disaster prone communities, both emotionally and financially, with insurance groups already pointing to lower insurance premiums in future.
Support for the new funds has come from:
Labor amendments secured an extra $50 million per year for disaster preparedness, including the construction of flood levees, cyclone shelters, fire breaks and other infrastructure to shield homes and businesses from future disasters.
It’s clear that investment in disaster preparedness will have a positive impact on disaster prone communities, both emotionally and financially, with insurance groups already pointing to lower insurance premiums in future.
Support for the new funds has come from:
- The Australian Red Cross “We welcome the increased funding from government on disaster preparedness… …the case for more investment in disaster risk reduction has never been more compelling.”
- IAG “we’ve consistently highlighted the best way to protect communities from the devastating impacts of natural disasters is by greater investment in mitigation”.
- Suncorp “this is a positive step in building our country’s resilience and will help many Australians living in dangerously exposed areas across the country, including North Queensland.”
- Insurance Council of Australia “The insurance industry is standing by to reduce insurance premiums wherever permanent and effective risk reduction is employed.”
- LGAQ “This would reduce the financial and emotional toll of future disasters on residents, businesses and taxpayers”
The $50 million in extra annual funding, secured by Labor, is a win for communities who will be better placed to manage future disaster seasons.