Strengthening Communities Through Disaster Preparedness

Rural and regional communities are no strangers to the harsh realities of disasters. Whether it’s drought, floods, storms or bushfires, these events can devastate livelihoods, impact food production, and put entire communities at risk. But what if your community had a clear plan in place to prepare, respond, and recover together?

That’s where Community Emergency Management Planning (CEMP) comes in. A strong plan ensures that when disaster strikes, your community is ready to act—protecting lives, livestock, and property, while ensuring no one is left behind.

The Six C’s Leading Community Emergency Planning

The Six C’s is spearheading Community Emergency Management Planning (CEMP) across Australia through their one-day, six-step workshop that helps communities develop practical, locally driven community emergency management plans.

The Six C’s are more than just facilitators—they are experienced first responders and emergency management practitioners who have stood beside communities before, during, and after disasters for over 40 years. Their extensive knowledge, combined with a commitment to collaborative, community-led planning, ensures that every plan is both effective, practical and unique. They have been recognised with a Resilient Australia Award and an Excellence in Disaster Communications Award, demonstrating their commitment to strengthening community resilience.

“We’re working with communities, including those with as few as 89 people, proving that no town is too small to prepare,” says Sue Rondeau, Co-Founder, The Six C’s.

Why Community Planning Matters

Effective community emergency management planning isn’t just about responding to disasters—it’s about ensuring that communities can plan for and recover from them.

Benefits of community emergency management planning with The Six C’s include:

• Locally tailored solutions: No cookie-cutter plans—each one is designed specifically for the needs of the community.
• Empowered local leadership: Equipping community members with the knowledge and skills to take charge in times of disaster.
• Stronger community connections: Building networks of support so no one is left to face disaster alone.
• Addressing unique risks: Identifying strengths and vulnerabilities specific to your region.
• Securing funding: A well-developed plan can support grant applications and government funding requests.
• Boosting resilience: Increasing mental and emotional preparedness to navigate the long road to recovery.
• Hands-on, practical learning: Engaging workshops using real-world scenarios to ensure communities are ready when it matters most.

Mat Price from Bunbartha in Northern Victoria, says, “It’s been absolutely fantastic working with The Six C’s, really beneficial in bringing the community together and we are making some real progress in our disaster preparedness as a community. You guys make it so easy.”

Stronger Together

Disasters are inevitable, but community-driven emergency planning ensures that communities don’t face them alone. By working together before a disaster hits, communities can protect their people, properties, and future livelihoods. The Six C’s is there to support and empower communities in taking that step—because in times of disaster, a united community is the strongest resource of all.

For more information on how your community can get involved, visit: https://thesixcs.com.au/community-emergency-management-planning/