Round Two of the Disaster Ready Fund (DRF) is now accepting applications. The second round of the DRF is an opportunity for communities and organisations to receive Australian Government investment for First Nations resilience projects.

The DRF will provide up to one billion dollars over five years to build resilience to natural hazards in Australian communities.

The DRF invests in projects that support Australians to manage the physical and social impact of disasters caused by climate change and natural hazards.

As part of Round One, $200 million was  provided for 187 projects across the country. We have now endorsed 59 project implementation plans, with at least 38 projects expected to commence in February 2024.

Round One of Disaster Ready Fund to deliver First Nations resilience projects

Several Round One projects of the DRF are being delivered in partnership with First Nations communities. These include investments in protecting and preserving cultural sites, in-situ artefacts, and objects from the impacts of natural hazards, and working in partnership with First Nations peoples to reduce risk.

Round Two will again provide up to $200 million for disaster risk reduction and resilience initiatives. We have built on the experiences and outcomes of Round One, and taken on board feedback from extensive stakeholder engagement, to make sure the funding is used effectively, is accessible to more regions, and facilitates multi-jurisdictional and national projects.

This is a unique opportunity for those who have local knowledge and are aware of what work needs to be undertaken, to reduce disaster risk and build resilience for First Nations communities across Australia.

Seeking First Nations resilience projects for Round Two of the Disaster Ready Fund

First Nations communities and organisations, interested in receiving investment to bring First Nations resilience project ideas to life, should develop and submit project proposals through their state or territory Lead Agencies, between 22 January and 20 March 2024. The Lead Agency is the best point of contact for a proposed application. Contact details are available on the DRF Round Two webpage. 

We are committed to ensuring a fair and transparent application process, including First Nations representation on the assessment panel. We encourage First Nations communities to take part in DRF Round Two and future rounds.

For more information visit Disaster Ready Fund – Round Two.