All emergencies have an enormous impact on the physical and the human environment, and a Local Government's ability to cope with any emergency or disaster depends on its access to and the quality of it's:

• Physical and human resources;
• Social, economic and political structures; and
• Emergency management strategies.

Without access to these resources, structures and strategies, the consequences of an emergency can be catastrophic to a Local Government and the community. By following the links and guides provided in this toolbox, you will discover ways to improve your Local Government's ability to cope with any emergency or disaster by ensuring that emergency management:

• Becomes part of your Local Government's daily operations;
• Is incorporated into council planning;
• Is responsible, innovative; and contributes to the social and economic development of your community.

The community must be informed and educated about their Local Government's preparedness to face emergencies and disasters. Your community will be looking towards you as their community leaders in times of emergency to not only assist them through the emergency event but to rebuild their community after the event and assist them to get their lives back on track.

Cyclone knowledge and Household Preparedness – Some insights from Cyclone Larry
(The Australian Journal of Emergency Management, Vol. 21 No. 3, August 2006 King, Goudieand Dominey-Howes report on how well Innisfail prepared for Cyclone Larry)

Legal Issues in Emergency Management – Lessons from the Last Decade (The Australian Journal of Emergency Management, Vol. 19 No. 1, March 2004 Article prepared by Catherine Dunlop, Senior Associate Maddocks Lawyers)