Keeping our mob safe: national emergency management strategy for remote Indigenous communities

Keeping our mob safe: National emergency management strategy for remote Indigenous communities is a response to an identified need for a practical approach by government at the local, State/Territory and national levels, and by Indigenous communities to address the community emergency management priorities of remote Indigenous communities. Importantly, the strategy also takes into account the broader community safety priorities and needs of remote Indigenous communities, as related to emergency management.

Issues raised by Indigenous peoples through a thorough consultation process have been addressed by this strategy where possible. This process involved extensive community discussions across three States and two Territories. Because Indigenous people’s issues are interrelated, particularly from a holistic community standpoint, it is difficult to separate out emergency management concerns per se. However, this focus has been attempted, with broader concerns being considered at times, to better retain the spirit of consensus achieved through community consultation.

The strategy intends to provide a strategic direction for emergency management and a framework for a coordinated and cooperative approach to risk assessment, decision-making and resource allocation. Its stated focus on preparedness and prevention also enables government to address deficiencies effectively in remote Indigenous communities before they face emergencies. Because some of these emergencies regularly occur in Australia due to the pattern of natural hazards (for example, tropical cyclones, flooding and bushfires), it is imperative that government fulfils its mandate to protect all citizens in a meaningful and timely manner.

The development of effective partnerships between remote Indigenous communities and emergency management-related agencies is the key to the success of this strategy. Building the capacity within and between agencies to support and assist Indigenous communities is a necessary first step. Beyond this, a host of priorities  require attention, including encouraging communities to build their own capacities for emergency management through enhanced communication and engagement with agencies; better community decision-making; improved resource agreements with partner agencies; more targeted training for community members and emergency management providers; real employment opportunities for Indigenous peoples (including voluntary work); and community education to raise awareness and prepare for emergencies.

The National emergency management strategy for remote Indigenous communities incorporates the following priorities:

Priority 1—Decision-making structures in remote Indigenous communities for emergency management

Priority 2—Communication and engagement with remote Indigenous communities on emergency management

Priority 3—Community emergency management planning for remote Indigenous communities

Priority 4—Community resourcing for emergency management in remote Indigenous communities

Priority 5—Coordinated and cooperative approach to emergency management in remote Indigenous communities

Priority 6—Empowering Indigenous people through emergency management training.

Priority 7—Education of Indigenous people.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

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