|
|||||
|
|
Towards networked governance: improving interagency communication and collaboration for disaster risk management and climate change adaptation in Australia |
|
| Authors: | Michael Howes Peter Tangney Kimberley Reis Deanna Grant-Smith Michael Heazle Karyn Bosomworth |
| Institution: | 1. Griffith School of Environment and Urban Research Program, Griffith University, Brisbane and Gold Coast, Australia;2. QUT Business School, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia;3. Griffith Asia Institute and School of Government and International Relations, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia;4. Climate Change Adaptation Program and Global Cities Research Institute, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia |
| Abstract: | Major disasters, such as bushfires or floods, place significant stress on scarce public resources. Climate change is likely to exacerbate this stress. An integrated approach to disaster risk management (DRM) and climate change adaptation (CCA) could reduce the stress by encouraging the more efficient use of pooled resources and expertise. A comparative analysis of three extreme climate-related events that occurred in Australia between 2009 and 2011 indicated that a strategy to improve interagency communication and collaboration would be a key factor in this type of policy/planning integration. These findings are in accord with the concepts of Joined-up Government and Network Governance. Five key reforms are proposed: developing a shared policy vision; adopting multi-level planning; integrating legislation; networking organisations; and establishing cooperative funding. These reforms are examined with reference to the related research literature in order to identify potential problems associated with their implementation. The findings are relevant for public policy generally but are particularly useful for CCA and DRM. |
| Keywords: | climate change adaptation disaster risk management Joined-up Government Network Governance policy integration communication collaboration |