EMERGENCY LEADERS for Climate Action has welcomed the Federal Government's $88 million funding to expand research into bushfires and natural hazards.
"Climate change is increasing bushfire danger in Australia to unprecedented levels, and ongoing research on this rapidly escalating threat is essential," said Greg Mullins, former Commissioner, Fire and Rescue NSW.
"As bushfire conditions worsen due to climate change, research into issues such as firefighting resources and operations, bushfire impacts, adaptation measures, and understanding future threats is critical.
"To be effective, this research must be useful and usable for communities, as well as fire and emergency services.
"Involvement of the peak council for fire and emergency services, the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council, will play an instrumental role in the success of future bushfire research, and its usefulness to organisations that rely on it to make crucial decisions.
"The Federal Government must also urgently address climate change and rapidly phase out the burning of coal, oil and gas which is driving more dangerous fires," said Mr Mullins.
