Published works

Catastrophic events pose unique challenges and are inevitable. Previous reviews have highlighted gaps in Australia’s preparedness for catastrophic disasters. Australia has no recent experience of a catastrophe, with the Spanish Flu (1918-1919) and Cyclone Tracey (1974) being perhaps two historic examples that have overwhelmed systems of management. Catastrophic events require the adoption of a whole of community approach. However, this is challenged by the culture of emergency services and wider community apathy. This report provides insights into building increased preparedness to reduce the occurrence of catastrophic disasters based upon a review of the global literature. Implications for practitioners are discussed.