Climate Wise Communities: Enhancing Traditional Bushfire Risk Management Using a Community Multi-Hazard Resilience Program in Sydney, Australia

Recently increasing extremes in fire weather and events have highlighted deficiencies in traditional bushfire hazard management. Australian policy has yet to effectively apply social dynamics into bushfire resilience which may explain why traditional approaches fail to sufficiently protect communities. Ku-ring-gai, NSW, Australia has a history of bushfire impact due to climate, extensive urban-bushland interface and population density. To better prepare for bushfire, Ku-ring-gai Council adopted a shared responsibility approach using the Climate Wise Communities (CWC) program. Interactive exercises and scenarios facilitate assessment of extreme weather vulnerability and planning for improved resilience. In collaboration with emergency services, Government, and not-for-profit agencies Council delivered targeted workshops to highly vulnerable sectors and localities. Over 220 have participated including families, neighbourhoods, community groups and social services. Aged care and early childhood businesses also trialled a multi-hazard approach successfully. Participation guides timely evacuation, property resilience and realistic stay and defend assessments. Outcomes include better household preparedness and decision-making. Continuing program refinements will develop networks to build independence and aid recovery that will also integrate small business, property owners, women’s groups and non-English speaking residents. The authors propose that social dynamics adds much needed latitude and flexibility to traditional bushfire risk management.