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As opposed to disaster mitigation, prevention and preparedness, Response and Recovery are undertaken during a disaster and after it occurs.

Response

Response is the process of combating a disaster and providing assistance to people affected by a disaster. The aim of response operations is to save lives, protect property and make an affected area safe. This is done by a number of organisations, including Local Government Counter Disaster Committees, State Emergency Service units, Police, Fire, Ambulance and Defence. The Disaster Management System (link to About Us section - Disaster Management System) ensures support and assistance are available as required by disaster stricken communities.

Recovery

Recovery is the process by which an affected community is assisted in regaining a proper level of functioning following a disaster. It comprises initial recovery, which satisfies personal and community needs and restores services to the level where Local Government and the normal responsible agencies can manage the continuing process. It also includes long term recovery, reconstruction and rehabilitation measures. The Natural Disaster Relief Arrangements, administered by the Federal Government, provide funding assistance to States and Territories aimed at alleviating the financial burden associated with the provision of natural disaster relief payments and infrastructure restoration.