Nature-based solutions, digital twins and smart public spaces go head-to-head in the 2025 Disaster Challenge Final
Join the action of this year’s Disaster Challenge Final live in Hobart!
The three finalist teams are perfecting their ideas and pitches, and you are invited to join Natural Hazards Research Australia at the RACV Hobart Hotel to hear innovative ways to revolutionise all types of infrastructure to build disaster resilience.
The final will be held 14 October 2025, 10:00am – 12:00pm (AEDT) at the RACV Hobart Hotel, 154-156 Collins St, Hobart Tasmania 7000.
If you are unable to participate in person, there is an option to register for the online live stream.
Meet the team finalists
Thriving coastal futures in southern Tasmania
This project empowers the Garden Island Sands community to manage coastal erosion through an integrated approach where locally led nature-based solutions strengthen social wellbeing and transform governance. This Tasmanian pilot leverages innovative partnerships between Council and communities to develop novel infrastructure adaptation, creating a replicable model for coastal community resilience nationwide.
- Dr Malcolm S Johnson, Huon Valley Council
- Bianca Suarez, Australian National University
- Edith Shum, University of Tasmania
- Kianna Gallagher, University of Tasmania
- Hevi Kurnia Hardini, Australian Maritime College
- Rosie Katunar, NRE Tasmania
*All team members are affiliated with the Centre for Marine Socioecology.
A digital twin for real-time flood insights
Innovation into data-driven solutions is required in response to increases in the frequency and intensity of flooding events in Australia. A digital twin for urban floods integrates real-time data into a dynamic interactive 3D model to inform flood response and increase community awareness, enhancing both physical and social resilience.
- Ryan Turner, RMIT University
From verge to vital: People-powered green spaces for climate and disaster resilience
Transforming underused public spaces into smart, nature-based infrastructure that reduces disaster risks like floods and fires. Co-designed with communities and Indigenous groups, the solution uses native plants, smart technology, and local stewardship to protect people and ecosystems, fostering safer, greener, and more connected rural Australian communities.
- Evelyn Liew, Griffith University
- Anjalee Panditha, Griffith University
- Sebastian Bernal Garcia, Griffith University
Learn more about the Disaster Challenge here.