The Minns Labor Government has brought together more than 100 Aboriginal leaders, organisations and government agencies for the state’s first Policy Roundtable on Aboriginal Disaster Resilience.
The event, held on Thursday 27 November at Australian Hall in partnership with the National Indigenous Disaster Resilience (NIDR) program at Monash University, centred on lived experience, cultural perspectives and the practical steps needed to embed Aboriginal leadership across emergency preparedness, response and recovery.
This roundtable is a joint initiative between the NSW Reconstruction Authority, the Premier’s Department, Aboriginal Affairs NSW and NIDR, following similar sessions already held in Queensland, South Australia and Victoria. Insights from the day will help shape an Aboriginal Emergency Management Action Plan for NSW, along with ongoing work under the State Disaster Mitigation Plan.
Participants heard from Indigenous knowledge holders, community representatives and emergency management agencies. Discussions explored disaster impacts, gaps in current arrangements, priorities for reform, and new opportunities to strengthen resilience and cultural inclusion across emergency systems.
The Minns Government says it is continuing to work closely with Aboriginal communities across the state to improve understanding of disaster arrangements, build resilience and support locally led approaches to preparedness and recovery. A summary of recommendations from the roundtable will be provided to government and shared with participants.
The State Disaster Mitigation Plan, described as the first of its kind in Australia, aims to reduce disaster risk in NSW and build stronger, safer and more resilient communities.
What leaders said
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, David Harris, said the roundtable recognises the importance of Aboriginal knowledge and community leadership in disaster resilience.
“Aboriginal people have a deep connection to Country and know what solutions work best for their communities in responding to natural disasters.
“We know there are better outcomes when Aboriginal organisations and people design, lead and implement solutions, in partnership with government.
“This roundtable is an excellent example of Aboriginal people leading and Government learning in an area of critical importance.”
Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, said the day was about listening to communities who have endured multiple disasters.
“Aboriginal people bring deep knowledge, strength and lived experience to disaster resilience. Today was about listening to communities who have endured repeated disasters and who know what works on their Country.
“We recognise that government can do more. This roundtable is the first of many steps to ensure Aboriginal voices are at the centre of how we plan for and respond to disasters.
“I am grateful to everyone who was a part of these important conversations. Their wisdom and leadership will guide how we build stronger, safer and more culturally grounded approaches across NSW.”
NSW Reconstruction Authority Acting CEO, Kate Meagher, said partnership is key to improving emergency systems.
“We know some First Nations communities face unique risks and challenges in disasters. That means we have a responsibility to work in partnership to make sure emergency systems are accessible, culturally respectful and genuinely aligned with community needs and priorities.
“Today’s roundtable is about creating space for practical, honest conversations, including what hasn’t worked in the past, so we can build better partnerships going forward.
“The RA is committed to strengthening our engagement with Aboriginal organisations and knowledge holders across the State, and ensuring their insights help guide future planning, policy and investment.”
NIDR program lead, Associate Professor Bhiamie Williamson, said placing Aboriginal voices at the centre of discussions is essential.
“This roundtable is about Aboriginal communities leading the conversation. First Nations people hold deep knowledge of resilience, recovery, and caring for Country.
“By placing Aboriginal voices at the centre of disaster risk and reduction, we ensure government policies and funding to build resilience are not only inclusive but genuinely effective in protecting lives, culture, and heritage.”
You can find more about the State Disaster Mitigation Plan at:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority/our-work/disaster-adaptation-plans/guidelines/state-disaster-mitigation-plan