The unique and specialised knowledge needs of the Northern Territory (NT) were highlighted by Natural Hazards Research Australia (the Centre) representatives during the 2024 NT Emergency Management Symposium, hosted by NT Fire and Emergency Services in Darwin at the end of November.
The two-day event, supported by the NT Police and the Department of the Chief Minister and Cabinet, brought together emergency management professionals and key stakeholders to engage in dynamic presentations, panel discussions and networking opportunities.
As a Centre Participant, the NT government through NT Police, Fire and Emergency Services is involved in Centre-funded projects and has a vested interest in developing research concepts that cater to the Top End’s unique circumstances and needs.
On day one, Centre CEO Andrew Gissing showcased the bold thought leadership needed to be ahead of ready, where risk is foreseen and proactive measures taken to face the preparedness, operational, recovery and resilience challenges Australia will face with the increasing frequency and severity of natural hazards.
“There is enormous power in collaborating to be ahead of the curve. By thinking big now, the NT has the opportunity to be carrying out the research needed now to be able to meet the growing and changing challenges of natural hazards into the future,” Andrew said.
The Centre also supported Dr Sue Keay (Partner and Director, FutureWork Group), expert in future workforce, technology and artificial intelligence (AI), to present on day one. She discussed the possibilities of AI and robotics expanded roles in future workforce considerations and emergency management, demonstrating the innovative, different approaches required to ensure Australia can meet the future needs of a climate challenged world. On day two, the Centre’s Science and Innovation Director Prof Cheryl Desha co-facilitated a workshop with Dr Keay for symposium attendees to unpack and understanding the future workforce needs of the NT as they relate to AI and other technologies.
The session was followed by a Northern Australia Research Capability showcase and panel featuring BNHCRC researcher Dr Andrew Edwards and Centre researchers, Dr David Henderson (James Cook University Cyclone Testing Station), Dr Peter Hayes (Central Queensland University) and PhD candidate Oscar Metcalfe (Charles Darwin University). A range of opportunities were highlighted to develop and use research uniquely suited to the Northern Australia’s disaster and emergency management needs to inform safer, resilient and more sustainable communities.
The symposium covered a wide range of topics including seasonal outlooks, technological innovations and workforce development, with a focus on enhancing the NT’s emergency management capabilities. Key speakers also included senior representatives from the National Emergency Management Agency, the Bureau of Meteorology and the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience.