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As Western Australia enters a season traditionally marked by bushfires, cyclones and heatwaves, Natural Hazards Research Australia’s (the Centre) recent showcase of cutting-edge research aims to inform and strengthen resilience against such natural hazards.
Following a video message from the Hon Josh Wilson MP, Assistant Minister for Emergency Management, the Hon Paul Papalia CSC MLA, Minister for Emergency Services, delivered the opening address, reinforcing the Western Australian Government’s commitment to evidence-based emergency management and the critical role of research in safeguarding lives and property.
“Western Australia’s unique landscape demands tailored solutions,” Minister Papalia said.
“This research being showcased is not just academic—it’s practical, actionable and vital to making our communities safer, more resilient and sustainable in the face of natural hazards.”
Assistant Minister for Emergency Management the Hon Josh Wilson MP sent a video message, highlighting the calibre and need for empowering natural hazards research.
“The research showcase you are involved in ise more than presentations,” Assistant Minister Wilson said.
“They're catalysts for collaboration, innovation, and real-world impact. They bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring that evidence-based solutions keep arriving and keep traveling to reach those that need them most.”
Dynamic research informing emergency response and preparedness
Projects featured at the showcase are part of the Centre’s broader mission to deliver partner-driven, locally relevant and nationally significant research that saves lives and reduces disaster risk.
The showcase featured a dynamic lineup of speakers and projects directly shaping emergency response and preparedness across Western Australia (WA):
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Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM of the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) on how research is enabling smarter, safer emergency responses through real-time data, predictive modelling and frontline innovation.
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Dr Kiam Padamsey from Edith Cowen University received a Centre-funded PhD to examine contaminants present in bushfire smoke that bushfire fighters may be exposed to in south-west Western Australia. Undertaken in collaboration with DFES, this fireground research is already reducing risks for firefighters and communities in bushfire-prone regions.
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A/Prof Geoff Boughton AM, Cyclone Testing Station, James Cook University, carried out field work following Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and offers new insights for cyclone preparedness that could inform Western Australia’s northern communities, critical as the state prepares for the upcoming cyclone season.
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Anna Durkin, undertaking an internship with DFES, will showcase the value of industry internships together with DFES supervisor Matt Watson, and share findings of her comparison of fire conditions in Perth to those preceding the devastating Los Angeles fires in January 2025.
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Strategic vision and community impact
Centre CEO Andrew Gissing provided strategic update on the Centre’s national research agenda, emphasising WA’s leadership in translating research into real-world impact.
“We are proud of our mission-driven research helping Australians across the country to anticipate, adapt and respond to natural hazards with greater confidence,” Andrew Gissing said.
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