Geoscience Australia has developed an earthquake hazard map based on a study of past events.

It estimates the likelihood of strong shaking and will allow engineers and planners to better design and locate infrastructure, according to Federal Resources and Energy Minister Martin Ferguson.

“The underlying models and data sets, which have also been made publicly available, can be used by emergency managers, regional and urban planners, the insurance industry and researchers to undertake more detailed analysis,” he said.

“For example, dam operators can use this information to minimise the likelihood of the major flooding that could result if a dam were severely damaged by an earthquake.”

An Insurance Council of Australia spokesman says pricing risk is a commercial decision for each insurer, and “any effort to increase awareness of exposure to earthquakes and other natural disasters is welcome”.

The map is available here.