The latest research on natural hazards science is on show this week in Melbourne at the 2023 Natural Hazards Research Forum.
Taking place at RMIT University’s Storey Hall over three days from 1-3 May as well as live streamed, the Natural Hazards Research Forum will feature keynote talks on vital issues in natural hazards science and disaster management, along with updates on Natural Hazards Research Australia research.
Natural Hazards Research Australia CEO Andrew Gissing said research is improving Australia’s future disaster preparedness.
“We can’t conquer nature but science and research provides the direction that Australia needs to better survive what is thrown at us,” Gissing said.
“Australia has a long history of using research to keep our communities and landscapes safe but we must do more, especially with pre-disaster mitigation. Science can show us the way and the Forum this week will showcase the important natural hazards research we have underway as we learn from leading Australian and international specialists.”
In partnership with the University of Melbourne, the Natural Hazards Research Forum will hear from resilience expert Prof Daniel Aldrich from the United States, who will share the latest research about how places and connections between people – connections made at the library, park or pub – have great potential to reduce disaster shock.
“I am excited to hear from the leading minds in research and disaster management about the impact science is having now, and where it will go in the future,” Gissing said.
Key activities include:
- Keynote from Brendan Moon, Coordinator-General for Emergency Management, National Emergency Management Agency
- Keynote from Prof Daniel Aldrich, Northeastern University, United States, on social infrastructure’s critical role in mitigating disasters – in partnership with the University of Melbourne
- Special session from A/Prof Mel Taylor, Macquarie University – launch of findings from social research on the 2022 floods in New South Wales and Queensland
- Using research to change practice session from Dr Briony Towers, Leadrrr, and Neil Munro, Country Fire Authority – how bushfire education is tailored for modern learning
- Keynote from Tiffany Crawford, City of Melbourne, and Kelly Gee and Judith Bruinsma, Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils – urban heat impacts, adaptation and mitigation.
- Learning from key First Nations researchers about how research is shaping cultural land management and helping heal Country.
The full program includes engagement, discussion, knowledge sharing and road-mapping of natural hazards research from Natural Hazards Research Australia and other natural hazard research and operational experts.
Media passes are available to attend the Natural Hazards Research Forum at Storey Hall, or alternatively media can access the Forum via live stream.
Natural Hazards Research Australia is funded by the Australian Government and its partners as a collaborative research organisation to address the major challenges arising from natural hazards. The Centre’s mission is to deliver usable research and knowledge that creates safer and more resilient communities.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES AND PASSES – please contact Nathan Maddock at Natural Hazards Research Australia – 0410 998 600 or nathan.maddock@naturalhazards.com.au