FRANKSTON: Emergency Fund established
Frankston City Council says that it is safeguarding the community against the growing risks of natural and other disasters by establishing a dedicated Emergency Disaster Fund.
“The initiative reflects Council’s commitment to responsible financial management and future-proofing the municipality against events such as landslips, bushfires, coastal erosion, and severe storms,” a Council representative said.
Mayor Cr Kris Bolam (pictured) said the fund is designed to provide a financial buffer that ensures Council can respond swiftly and effectively when disaster strikes.
“We’ve seen firsthand the impact disasters such as storms, coastal flooding, and landslips – like the one nearby at McCrae – have directly on the community and in the recovery effort that follows.
“This fund is about future-proofing our city and being sufficiently prepared for the unexpected. We feel this is especially important for coastal communities like ours,” Cr Bolam said.
“While Council remains committed to planning and having strategies and infrastructure in place to reduce impacts where we can, we know this isn’t always possible and sometimes disaster strikes without warning.”
Cr Emily Green also highlighted the increasing risks posed by climate change.
“Climate change is intensifying the frequency and severity of events like bushfires and coastal erosion.
“This fund is a responsible and necessary step to ensure we can support our community when it matters most,” Cr Green said.