NSW Natural Disaster Resilience Program

Project objective

The NSW Natural Disaster Resilience Program (2015–2019) aimed to reduce disaster risk and strengthen resilience, capacity and capability across state, regional and local levels. More than 200 projects were funded under six targeted program streams:

• Community Resilience Innovation Program (CRIP) supported community-led initiatives to improve disaster preparedness and build resilience through collaboration between local organisations and emergency services.
• Emergency Volunteer Support Scheme (EVSS) enhanced recruitment, retention and skills development for emergency management volunteers through training and leadership programs.
• Bush Fire Risk Mitigation Grants Scheme (BFRMGS) delivered bush fire mitigation and resilience projects identified by NSW Rural Fire Service and the State Emergency Management Committee.
• Flood Risk Mitigation Grants Scheme (FRMGS) helped councils and public land managers make informed decisions to manage flood risk and reduce loss.
• Community Partners Volunteer Training Scheme (CPVTS) provided training and support for volunteers and chaplains from NGO Community Partner Organisations involved in disaster welfare services.
• State Emergency Management Program (SEMP) funded state-significant projects to address disaster risk knowledge gaps and improve emergency management capability across NSW.

Program evaluation

To better understand the impact of the Natural Disaster Resilience Program, we commissioned ThinkPlacex and Sapere to undertake an Outcomes Evaluation and Economic Evaluation. 

Using a multidimensional methodology that blended quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights, the evaluation explored the program’s:

• efficiency
• effectiveness
• appropriateness
• sustainability

It also assessed how well the program’s six streams aligned with the evolving needs of communities affected by natural disasters.

Key findings and recommendations from the evaluation are outlined in the 

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