PROJECT proposals are being sought from across NSW for Round One of the Australian Government’s Disaster Ready Fund (DRF) to invest in disaster risk reduction projects.

Acting CEO for the NSW Reconstruction Authority Mick Cassel said the DRF – which provides up to $1 billion over five years – demonstrates commitment to natural disaster resilience and recovery.

“The DRF will inject vital funding into communities across the State to help them prepare, mitigate and reduce the impact of natural disasters, while ensuring they are best prepared to reduce infrastructure damage and protect life,” Mr Cassel said.

“Over the past couple of years, our State has been hit by compounding natural disasters from the Black Summer bush fires of 2019 and 2020 to the devastating 2022 floods, which resulted in significant trauma and loss.

“So, we’re committed to working with the Australian Government to bring the most sophisticated and top-tier funding model to deliver the infrastructure, technology and security to help better prepare for future natural disasters, help reduce damage and save lives.”

Under Round One of the DRF, up to $200 million is available to Australian states and territories, with projects to commence from 2023-24.

National Emergency Management Agency Coordinator-General Brendan Moon said efforts to minimise the impact of disasters helped reduce their emotional and economic toll on Australians.

“Reducing disaster risk is best achieved by working with communities on projects that they consider will have the greatest local impact.

“I encourage every local government, community, and industry group to put forward their ideas to the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

“Through collective action we ensure communities become safer, stronger and more connected,” he said.

Only Australian states and territory governments are eligible under the DRF to apply for funding via an overarching application covering all project proposals.

Applications for NSW will be managed by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

As the Australian Government’s flagship disaster resilience and risk reduction initiative, the DRF encompasses investment in disaster mitigation infrastructure and systemic disaster risk reduction projects, to address any, or multiple, natural hazards including extreme weather events and geological hazards.

Project proposals must be submitted to the NSW Reconstruction Authority by 5pm AEDT on 14 February 2023.

For more information visit www.nsw.gov.au/resilience-nsw/disaster-ready-fund.