Federal and state governments have commissioned a review into natural disaster governance arrangements as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s preparedness for future catastrophes.

Robert Glasser, Head of Climate and Security Policy Centre at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, will lead the Independent Review of National Natural Disaster Governance Arrangements.

He is expected to complete the review by November 30.

“The review will examine how national governance arrangements could more effectively serve national natural disaster preparedness, response, recovery, resilience and long-term policy requirements,” Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said.

The exercise will complement the ongoing Independent Review into Commonwealth Disaster Funding, which is expected to submit a final report in April next year.

As part of the review Dr Glasser will also consider establishing an authoritative disaster advisory body and expanding the remit of the National Emergency Management Ministers’ Meeting (NEMMM) – a Ministerial Council reporting to National Cabinet.

The NEMMM brings together emergency management portfolio ministers across jurisdictions to drive national cooperation and consistency on enduring strategic issues in emergency and disaster management, and resilience.

Mr Murray, who chairs the NEMMM, says ensuring the disaster response is fit for purpose across jurisdictions will deliver the best results for disaster-prone communities.

“All Ministers responsible for disaster response understand that we do better through strong cooperation and by planning ahead, not waiting for disasters to strike,” Mr Watt said.

“If we are as prepared as possible at a government level, we can ensure communities get help fast.”

All levels of government, the community and private sector will be engaged to provide input, with further desktop reviews and research to inform the final report.

A Working Group consisting of representatives from the Australian and state and territory governments and the Australian Local Government Association is being established to support Dr Glasser.

The review is being conducted in response to recommendations from the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements.