Released 04/06/2026
Local organisations are being invited to help strengthen the Territory’s disaster resilience, with applications now open for Round 4 (2026-27) of the Australian Government’s Disaster Ready Fund.
The Disaster Ready Fund supports practical projects that help communities better manage the physical, social and economic impacts of disasters caused by climate change and other natural hazards.
Round 4 builds on outcomes achieved in previous funding rounds, with a wide range of ACT projects already supported, including inclusive community education, climate‑adaptive infrastructure, and partnerships with community organisations to strengthen resilience.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson, encouraged eligible ACT organisations to come forward with proposals that will deliver lasting benefits for the community.
“The Disaster Ready Fund has already delivered real benefits for the ACT, supporting projects that help Canberrans become more resilient to the disasters that we may face,” Minister Paterson said.
“Through the first three rounds, ACT organisations have demonstrated innovation, collaboration and a strong focus on community‑led resilience. Round 4 is an opportunity to build on that momentum.”
The ACT will be able to submit up to 15 applications to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), with a baseline funding allocation of $5.34 million, alongside the opportunity to seek additional funding from the national pool.
To support a coordinated and competitive ACT submissions, the ACT Government has introduced an Expression of Interest (EOI) process, with organisations encouraged to submit a short proposal summary by 16 June 2026.
The ACT Government welcomes project proposals that will benefit the Territory from local organisations for consideration in the process.
Territory projects supported by the Disaster Ready Fund’s previous round have included:
- Development of a flash flood warning system, using advanced modelling and local flood data to deliver timely, location‑specific warnings and better support emergency response during flash flooding events.
- Delivery of accredited disaster preparedness training for ACT pharmacists, including webinars and localised resources, to ensure communities can maintain access to essential medicines and health advice during emergencies.
- Flood studies across the Ginninderra, Jerrabomberra and Woolshed Creek catchments, identifying current and future flood‑prone areas, climate change impacts, and practical mitigation options to inform land‑use planning and emergency management.
“As climate change continues to drive more frequent and severe natural hazards, investing in preparedness and mitigation is essential,” Minister Paterson said.
“The Disaster Ready Fund is a vital tool to help protect lives, property and community wellbeing, and to ensure the ACT is ready to face future disasters.”
Projects must be delivered within a three-year timeframe, reflecting a stronger focus on timely outcomes.
Disaster Ready Fund Round 4 applications close on 1 July 2026.
You can apply through the ACT process or by emailing drf@act.gov.au.
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Marisa Paterson, MLA | Media Releases