As natural disasters become more frequent and severe, the Australian Government is ramping up investment in disaster preparedness through its flagship Disaster Ready Fund (DRF). With up to $1 billion committed over five years, the program is designed to reduce disaster risks and strengthen community resilience nationwide.
Now in its third round, the DRF will provide up to $200 million in Australian Government funding for 2025-26, continuing its mission to mitigate the devastating social and economic impacts of disasters.
A Focus on Infrastructure and Long-Term Resilience
The Round Three Guidelines, released on 22 January 2025, set out clear priorities for applicants. A key shift in this round is an increased focus on infrastructure projects, with $138 million specifically allocated for initiatives that deliver lasting community benefits.
Key highlights of the updated guidelines include:
- A minimum project value of $500,000 for infrastructure proposals.
- Extended project timelines, allowing up to five years for infrastructure delivery.
- A refined focus on new investment, excluding standard capital works or essential services already funded through other government programs.
- Stricter eligibility criteria to ensure funds drive tangible disaster resilience outcomes.
A Proven Track Record
Since launching in 2023, the DRF has allocated $400 million across 358 projects aimed at strengthening community resilience.
- Round One (2023-24): Funded 187 projects with a $200 million investment.
- Round Two (2024-25): Initially approved 164 projects, with further adjustments ensuring the full $200 million allocation was used.
These projects range from flood mitigation works and bushfire resilience upgrades to community-led disaster preparedness programs, helping to reduce long-term recovery costs and protect vulnerable communities.
Matching Funds & Collaborative Efforts
The DRF operates as a co-investment model, with states, territories, and applicants providing matching contributions. This approach nearly doubles the government’s investment, ensuring a greater overall impact on disaster risk reduction efforts.
A panel of experts from Australian Government agencies and advisory bodies will assess Round Three applications, making recommendations to the Minister for Emergency Management, who holds the final decision-making authority.
How to Apply
Applications for Round Three must be submitted through designated Lead Agencies in each state and territory. The deadline for submissions is 2 April 2025.
For further information, applicants are encouraged to consult their state or territory’s Lead Agency (in NSW it is the NSW Reconstruction Authority drfnsw@resilience.nsw.gov.au) or contact the DRF team at Disaster.Ready@nema.gov.au.
Building a Safer, More Prepared Australia
With climate change exacerbating the severity and frequency of disasters, programs like the Disaster Ready Fund play a crucial role in protecting Australian communities. By investing in proactive, infrastructure-driven solutions, the government aims to reduce risk, increase resilience, and ultimately save lives and livelihoods.
For more details and to access the full Round Three Guidelines, visit the official DRF resource hub.
