Red Cross Disaster Preparedness Week

The Attorney General and Minister for Emergency Management, Nicola Roxon, joined with the Red Cross to urge Australians to get ready for the coming summer disaster season as Red Cross Disaster Preparedness Week approaches.

"The devastation and disruption caused by natural disasters is well known to all of us, yet new research commissioned by the Red Cross shows only one in five Australians is prepared for a disaster," Roxon said.

"While disasters can be unpredictable, we can all be better prepared. So, this disaster season, be ready, be smart by preparing today."

The week provides an opportunity for Australians to think about what they need to do to get ready for the bushfires, floods, cyclones and other disasters that regularly strike Australian communities.

"Preparing a plan and discussing it with family, friends and neighbours is the best way to secure your safety and wellbeing when a disaster strikes," Roxon said.

"It's also important to get to know your local community. Do you know of your local emergency telephone numbers? Do you know what the evacuation plan is for your children's school?

"Preparing an emergency kit is also a good idea, that includes items like food and water, a battery-operated radio, torch, first aid kit and medications supplies. Other good items to include in a household emergency kit include copies of important family documents, contact details for your agreed out-of-town contact and spare clothes and strong shoes."

The Australian Government's Preparing for the Unexpected brochure and the Red Cross's Emergency REDiPlan are resources to help Australians get ready for disaster season.

Roxon paid tribute to the Red Cross for its contribution during emergencies.

"Over the last five years, the Australian Red Cross has helped more than 340,000 people affected by emergencies - a fantastic contribution," Roxon said.

The Australia Government supports Australians in preparing for natural disasters through the National Partnership Agreement on Natural Disaster Resilience, investing $110 million in mitigation and over $70m in aerial firefighting support to the states and territories.