Natural disasters are a fact of life in Queensland and impact transport operations, particularly
state-controlled roads, and road-related assets. According to the 2020 report from the Royal
Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements, Australia’s disaster outlook is
evolving, with an increase in bushfires, extreme rainfall, and flooding expected [1]. This is
further corroborated by the Australian Actuaries Climate Index, which tracks changes in the
frequency of extreme weather conditions and shows a significant increase in extreme weather
risk across Australia [2]. Approximately 20,764 kilometres (or almost two-thirds) of the
Queensland state road network were closed or had impacted access during disaster events in
Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA)-activated LGAs in 2021–22. This included
4,848 kilometres impacted by more than one event. [3].
An increasing frequency of natural disasters will demand that Australia’s state road authorities
properly integrate disaster preparedness into their standard operational frameworks.
Traditionally viewed as exceptional events, natural disasters should now be considered a
regular aspect of road management and planning. This presentation will discuss the need for
operational preparedness as a foundational pillar in natural disaster response, emphasising
the application of new technologies to assist and improve response actions, asset
management, and resilience planning. By showcasing current initiatives (Case Study:
Department of Transport and Main Roads, South Coast Region – Natural Disaster Program)
and identifying gaps in existing frameworks, the discussion aims to foster a proactive approach
towards road authority operational resilience, highlighting the critical role of organised and
prepared natural disaster programs in mitigating the impact of natural disasters. Through
strategic planning, innovative solutions, and collaborative efforts, all road authorities can
enhance their readiness and response outcomes, ensuring the safety and reliability of
transport networks in the face of increasing climatic challenges.
Collaborative Procurement 101 – opening the playbook
June 28, 2024
Collaborative procurement is a strategy that focuses on achieving greater value by working together with suppliers to jointly plan, source and buy goods and services.
