Our impact
Life-changing natural hazards research for today and tomorrow
We deliver high-quality, evidence-based solutions that address Australia’s worsening natural hazard risk.
Our research has had a nationwide impact, helping more than 27 million Australians in diverse ways supporting communities, governments and emergency management agencies to prepare for emerging natural hazard challenges.
Since our beginnings in 2003 as the Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre, we have:
- Increased community resilience to natural hazards.
Our research has touched all Australians in some way, and ensured the public, governments and emergency management agencies are better prepared for what’s to come. - Driven sector transformation.
We have changed the narrative in the emergency management sector, creating a space for discussion, innovation and big picture thinking. - Mobilised the research ecosystem.
We have provided the infrastructure and funding to bring researchers together with end user practitioners, putting critical findings directly into the hands of decision makers. - Contributed to the international knowledge base.
We have developed, coordinated and consolidated natural hazards science in Australia and ensured research efforts are focused on work that is timely, relevant and useful. - Increased capacity.
We have supported hundreds of researchers; our communications and research translation have built knowledge and skills in our partners and the community.
There are any number of things, whether it be lives saved, communities saved, the way we speak to communities, the way we have conversations [as a sector] that have all been built on the Centre's good research - and that's pretty important.
A note about impact
We understand that it is hard to draw a direct line between research and impact. Many different factors influence policy, practice and behaviour, and it can take decades for research to amplify and make a difference on the ground.
However, we also know that research we have funded over more than two decades is making a very real impact on Australians’ lives – whether that’s through increased understanding of natural hazards, better warnings and information, a more sustainable emergency management sector, or evidence for upgrading homes and buildings.
The impact stories below tell some of this research in action.
Stories of impact
More resilient communities
Evidence on community resilience, behaviour and engagement means people across Australia are now better supported to withstand natural hazards.
More sustainable volunteer workforce
Our work supported the health, wellbeing, effectiveness and sustainability of Australia’s vital volunteer workforce.
Meaningful warnings for all
Our research has informed the creation of actionable messages for emergency services, businesses, communities and individuals.
Safer first responders
Our research has improved occupational health and safety for first responders nationally, helping them safely carry out their roles and keep communities safe.
Evidence-informed emergency planning and management
Research informing the way agencies and the public act to be safer and more resilient.
More resilient environments
Safer, more resilient home, businesses, infrastructure and landscapes.