The Australian Government has opened the third round of its $1 billion Disaster Ready Fund (DRF), offering $200 million for projects aimed at enhancing disaster risk reduction and resilience. $138 million has been designated for infrastructure to support communities and prepare for natural disasters like floods, cyclones and bushfires.
The Guidelines:
- Emphasise the importance of enduring project benefits for communities
- Support all projects, with a greater focus on infrastructure (dedicated funding of up to $138 million)
- Allow more time to deliver successful infrastructure projects (5 years)
- Set a minimum project value of $500,000 for infrastructure projects
- Clarify that 'business as usual' activities are not eligible (i.e. standard capital works or essential services that fall under the remit of state or territory government, local government or other Australian Government departments), and
- Tighten rules related to historical investments to ensure new investment in disaster resilience.
The Disaster Ready Fund is an opportunity for governments, community groups and affected communities that want to reduce impact of natural hazards and avert disasters. Applications are open from 22nd January to 2nd April 2025.
