Disaster adaptation planning guidelines have been launched to establish a consistent and streamlined approach to reducing disaster risk across the state.
Disaster Adaptation Plans (DAPs) are a legislative responsibility of the NSW Reconstruction Authority and a key feature of the first State Disaster Mitigation Plan (SDMP), released in February 2024. This comprehensive plan outlines how the rising costs of disasters can be addressed by investing in risk-reduction.
DAPs work collaboratively with councils, communities and government agencies to help reduce disaster risk and adapt to future hazards through long-term mitigation and adaptation.
DAPs were also a key recommendation of the 2022 Independent Flood Inquiry, which called for effective and cross-government engagement to adapt to disaster risk across the state.
Since July 2019, NSW has experienced 111 declared natural disasters, with more than 20,000 homes damaged in 2022 alone. The SDMP indicated that the annual cost of floods, fires and storms is projected to reach $9.1 billion by 2060 highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive disaster adaptation planning.
Each DAP assesses the unique geography and characteristics of the region to identify the most effective risk reduction measures for different natural hazards.
The plans provide communities with a clear understanding of local risks and insights into how disasters impact people, homes, infrastructure, services and local economies.
The DAPs complement a $1.54 million refurbishment planned for Gunnedah PCYC as the nominated disaster and emergency evacuation centre. The Australian government last year announced a $742,204 for the upgrade, matched by a contribution from PCYC NSW.
The refurbishments will focus on accessibility and compliance infrastructure enhancements including new entry and accessibility changes, new recreation room, toilets and kitchen, among other changes.
