DISASTER RISK PROJECT

Protecting South Australia’s Food Bowl  

In collaboration with the National Emergency Management Authority and the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, South Australia, we are launching the Food Cluster Disaster Risk Project. This initiative aims to enhance disaster preparedness, protect critical food production zones, and strengthen food security across South Australia.   

With the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters, this project will collect vital ground-level intelligence to improve emergency response efforts and ensure the long-term sustainability of food production in the region.   

SAFEGUARDING OUR REGION’S FOOD SECURITY

The growing threat to South Australia's food system. 

South Australia's food sector is confronting ongoing natural disasters that threaten farms, infrastructure, and supply chains. The Adelaide Plains is one of the most important food production regions in the state, contributing over $400 million annually to the economy. However, recent studies reveal a pressing concern that 16.4% of South Australians experience low or extremely low food security   

To address this, we need proactive measures and strong collaboration between food producers, emergency management agencies, and local communities.   

HOW THE PROJECT PROTECTS

Real-time data collection and mapping

To build resilience against disasters, we have developed an interactive web-based mapping tool that will capture critical information about land use, structures, and agricultural assets, identify vulnerabilities in key food production areas and support emergency agencies with accurate data for better decision-making.

This tool will enable faster and more effective responses when disasters strike, reducing long-term damage and supporting recovery efforts.   

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KEY FOOD PRODUCTION ZONES

At this stage, we have identified five key food production zones across the Adelaide Plains that will undergo detailed risk assessments. Our field consultants will collect data on:   

  • Land use and cropping patterns   

  • Farm infrastructure and equipment   

  • Water access and irrigation systems   

  • Storage facilities and supply chain networks   

By mapping these critical areas, we can ensure better coordination and preparedness in the face of future disasters.   

Any data we obtain from you will be managed to ensure, as far as possible, your privacy and anonymity. All data will be stored securely (de-identified and password protected) by the researchers on this project and will adhere to human research ethics protocols. The collected data and research findings will also be developed into publicly released communications but more importantly released to emergency relief agencies.

THE FOUR MAJOR DISASTER RISKS WE ASSESS

Our region faces multiple high-risk threats that have the potential to devastate food production. Through this project, we are conducting comprehensive risk assessments against the following:  

STORMS

PESTS & DISEASE

FIRE

FLOODS

By understanding these risks, we can develop targeted strategies to mitigate damage and improve recovery efforts.   

WHY THIS PROJECT MATTERS?

This project is crucial for protecting South Australia’s food supply by enhancing emergency preparedness, strengthening community collaboration, and ensuring long-term resilience for our farming communities. By working together, we can safeguard one of the region’s most valuable food production areas for future generations.

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

Building a resilient food system requires community participation. Whether you are a farmer, business owner, or local resident, you can play a role in ensuring food security. You can get involved by:  

  • Contribute to data collection by sharing insights about land use, infrastructure, and potential risks   

  • Attend community meetings to stay informed and participate in discussions about disaster preparedness   

  • Collaborate with project partners by working with industry groups and emergency agencies to improve response efforts   

  • Help spread the word by raising awareness and sharing this initiative with your networks   

  • Follow our updates to stay informed about new developments, findings, and recommendations   

TOGETHER, WE CAN PROTECT SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S FOOD BOWL AND BUILD A MORE RESILIENT, PREPARED, AND FOOD-SECURE FUTURE.

Have questions?