Unions criticise ombudsman over CFMEU crackdown; millions spent on disaster protection

A multi-government plan to improve Australia’s disaster defences will ensure communities across the country are better protected from natural disasters such as floods and cyclones.

More than 160 projects will receive $387 million from the second round of Disaster Ready Fund disbursements, including initiatives such as levee reinforcements, shoreline restoration, cultural firefighting and mental health training.

The projects include a $6.8 million investment in western New South Wales to carry out flood-related works, including crop protection and life-threatening mitigation, and $15.7 million to upgrade and cyclone-proof an evacuation centre in Kununurra, Western Australia.

Emergency Management Minister Jenny McAllister said Australians could face more severe natural disasters more often due to climate change.

“By working with all levels of government to make significant investments in mitigation projects, we will reduce the risks and impacts Australians face during disasters,” she said.

The projects are jointly funded by federal, state, territorial and local governments. The $1 billion Disaster Ready Fund will be disbursed over five years, beginning in June 2023.

MONKEY