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Program

Our program is designed to be interactive, allowing you to explore each session in detail. By clicking on the presenter sessions, you’ll have access to comprehensive session outlines, the presenter's biography, and the 3 key takeaways you’ll gain from attending.

 

Please note, all conference sessions will be running on AEST (Queensland time), so be sure to adjust your schedule accordingly.

 

Ready to register? Don’t miss out on this opportunity—Register NOW to secure your spot!

 

To return to the main conference website, simply click here: http://www.anzdmc.com.au/

 

Conference Venue: RACV Royal Pines Resort, Gold Coast, QLD – a stunning location for this year’s conference, combining world-class facilities with the beauty of the Gold Coast.

 

We look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable conference experience!

 

The 2025 Disaster & Emergency Management Conference reserves the right to amend or alter any advertised details relating to dates, program and speakers if necessary and without notice, as a result of circumstances beyond their control. All attempts will be made to keep any changes to an absolute minimum. 


Sunday, July 13, 2025

Pre-Conference Activities
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Pre-Conference Tour - Gold Coast Disaster and Emergency Management Centre
Delegates attending DEMC have the unique opportunity to participate in an exclusive guided tour of the new state-of-the-art $24 million Gold Coast Disaster and Emergency Management Centre. This cutting-edge facility plays a critical role in coordinating responses to emergencies and natural disasters, providing insight into real-time crisis management, technology integration, and resilience planning. The cost is $20.00 per person, and spaces are strictly limited. Secure your spot by registering via the delegate registration form.
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Welcome Drinks
Great news – we’re opening registrations early! You are welcome to come and join us to collect your name badge and conference materials, plus have dinner and a drink with new and old friends. This will save you time and give you the chance to meet and greet colleagues before the conference starts on Monday.
Pre-Conference Activities
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Pre-Conference Tour - Gold Coast Disaster and Emergency Management Centre
Delegates attending DEMC have the unique opportunity to participate in an exclusive guided tour of the new state-of-the-art $24 million Gold Coast Disaster and Emergency Management Centre. This cutting-edge facility plays a critical role in coordinating responses to emergencies and natural disasters, providing insight into real-time crisis management, technology integration, and resilience planning. The cost is $20.00 per person, and spaces are strictly limited. Secure your spot by registering via the delegate registration form.
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Welcome Drinks
Great news – we’re opening registrations early! You are welcome to come and join us to collect your name badge and conference materials, plus have dinner and a drink with new and old friends. This will save you time and give you the chance to meet and greet colleagues before the conference starts on Monday.

Pre-Conference Activities
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Pre-Conference Tour - Gold Coast Disaster and Emergency Management Centre
Delegates attending DEMC have the unique opportunity to participate in an exclusive guided tour of the new state-of-the-art $24 million Gold Coast Disaster and Emergency Management Centre. This cutting-edge facility plays a critical role in coordinating responses to emergencies and natural disasters, providing insight into real-time crisis management, technology integration, and resilience planning. The cost is $20.00 per person, and spaces are strictly limited. Secure your spot by registering via the delegate registration form.
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Welcome Drinks
Great news – we’re opening registrations early! You are welcome to come and join us to collect your name badge and conference materials, plus have dinner and a drink with new and old friends. This will save you time and give you the chance to meet and greet colleagues before the conference starts on Monday.

Monday, July 14, 2025

Prince Room
Monarch Room
Royal Poinciana
Norfolk Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day One
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Acknowledge and Welcome: The Land We Gather On
To start the conference, we acknowledge the Yugambeh people, Traditional Custodians of the land, through a Welcome to Country ceremony by the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. This meaningful moment honors their connection to the land and invites us to be mindful of our shared responsibility to care for it.
8:40 AM - 8:55 AM Official Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we officially open DEMC25 and set the stage for an impactful conference. Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand will extend a warm welcome to delegates, share important housekeeping details.
8:55 AM - 9:55 AM Keynote Panel - Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches
Moderator: Des Hosie Commissioner Steve Smith, Queensland Fire Department, Andrew Crisp, CEO Ambulance Victoria, TAS Police Commissioner Donna Adams, SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM From Awareness to Action: Embedding Climate Adaptation in Decision-Making
Michael Nolan, Climate Change Risk and Resilience Leader, Aurecon
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Strengthening Community-Led and Inclusive Approaches to Safety, Resilience and Ethical Excellence
Chair: Doug Caulfield 		Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration
Chair: Rev. Dr Mark Layson 		Harnessing Technology and Innovation
Chair: Deborah Bunker 		Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches
Chair: Emily Chapman
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM The Future of Emergency Services Volunteering in Australia! The VolunTeir Model
John Moy, Charles Sturt University 		Closing the Future Skills Gap: Mapping Pathways for the Next Generation of Emergency Management Practitioners
Kate Retzki, Office of the Inspector-General of Emergency Management 		Drone-as-a-first Responder: the What, Why, How and When
Dr David Cole, Flyfreely 		Enduring Flood Resilience for Queenslanders
Vina Varsani, Queensland Reconstruction Authority & Sam Bowstead, Queensland Department Of Housing And Public Works
11:35 AM - 12:05 PM Future-Proofing Disaster Response: Engaging the Next Generation to Build Climate-Resilient Communities
Madi Keay, The Charity Collective 		"Now I Know What It Feels Like" - Training for the Real Thing
Scott Campbell, Nxus The War Room Experience 		Embedding Cyber Resilience in Emergency Response and Recovery
Adam Bland, Complete Resilience
Presentation Continued
12:10 PM - 12:40 PM The Difficulty of Undertaking Preparation Tasks for Different Disasters and Sociodemographics
Dr Amanda Muller, Torrens Resilience Initiative 		Leading At The Political Interface
Stefan Weir, National Emergency Management Agency, New Zealand 		Need for Speed – Time Critical In-Language Access to Emergency Management Victoria’s Disaster Warning System
Tea Dietterich, 2M Language Services 		Defining Queensland's Adf Gap and Implications in Contemporary Disaster Response
Dr Mark Armstrong, Queensland State Emergency Service
12:40 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch with Exhibitors
Experience the interactive lunch in the exhibition! Remember to check the app daily for updates and instructions so you won’t miss any of the special surprises.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM We Recover Better Together
Natasha Odgers, Community Praxis Cooperative & is Jane Willis, Sunshine Coast Council 		Resourcing Innovation and Regional Resilience in the Face of Extreme Weather
Ben Green, Tairawhiti Emergency Management (NZ) 		Strengthening Crisis Leadership: A Study of Crisis and Humanitarian Leadership Training
Dr Katie McIntyre, Deakin University
Presentation By Juvare Asia Pacific
Workshop 1
Workshop 2
Workshop 3
Workshop 4
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Beyond Command and Control: Conceptualising Leadership Along the “trust Investment” and “decision Interaction Style” Spectra
Rev Dr Mark Layson, Charles Sturt University 		Leaders Make a Difference: Being an Expert Companion
Marianne Dyer, Authentic Connections Psychology Consultants 		Adapting to Climate Change: Designing A Climate Change Responsive Mental Health Service Ecosystem
Benjamin Norris, School Of Public Health, University of Queensland 		Healing through Connection: Wayapa Wuurrk in Disaster Recovery
Jem Stone, Wayapa Wuurrk
3:00 PM - 3:35 PM
Join Us For Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors & In-Person Poster Presentations
3:35 PM - 3:45 PM TECH TALK: Live Tech Demos for Disaster Management
Presented By KJR
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM Rise of Community Resilience Hubs: Essential Infrastructure for Resilient Communities
Illya Azaroff FAIA, Principal +lab Architect, Professor Citytech CUNY
4:45 PM - 4:55 PM Day One Wrap Up
Join us on Day One as we wrap up an exciting day of learning, collaboration, and innovation with conference chair Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand
4:55 PM - 5:45 PM The Exhibition Networking Experience: Engage with Industry Leaders Over Drinks
Unwind, connect, and explore in our conference exhibition hall, where industry leaders, cutting-edge technology, and innovative solutions come together to shape the future of disaster and emergency management. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere as you engage with experts, discover the latest advancements, and explore groundbreaking products and services—all while networking over drinks. Whether you're looking to forge new partnerships, experience hands-on demonstrations, or gain insights from top professionals, this is your chance to connect with the people and innovations driving resilience in an ever-changing world.
Prince Room
Monarch Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day One
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Acknowledge and Welcome: The Land We Gather On
To start the conference, we acknowledge the Yugambeh people, Traditional Custodians of the land, through a Welcome to Country ceremony by the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. This meaningful moment honors their connection to the land and invites us to be mindful of our shared responsibility to care for it.
8:40 AM - 8:55 AM Official Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we officially open DEMC25 and set the stage for an impactful conference. Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand will extend a warm welcome to delegates, share important housekeeping details.
8:55 AM - 9:55 AM Keynote Panel - Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches
Moderator: Des Hosie Commissioner Steve Smith, Queensland Fire Department, Andrew Crisp, CEO Ambulance Victoria, TAS Police Commissioner Donna Adams, SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM From Awareness to Action: Embedding Climate Adaptation in Decision-Making
Michael Nolan, Climate Change Risk and Resilience Leader, Aurecon
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Strengthening Community-Led and Inclusive Approaches to Safety, Resilience and Ethical Excellence
Chair: Doug Caulfield 		Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration
Chair: Rev. Dr Mark Layson
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM The Future of Emergency Services Volunteering in Australia! The VolunTeir Model
John Moy, Charles Sturt University 		Closing the Future Skills Gap: Mapping Pathways for the Next Generation of Emergency Management Practitioners
Kate Retzki, Office of the Inspector-General of Emergency Management
11:35 AM - 12:05 PM Future-Proofing Disaster Response: Engaging the Next Generation to Build Climate-Resilient Communities
Madi Keay, The Charity Collective 		"Now I Know What It Feels Like" - Training for the Real Thing
Scott Campbell, Nxus The War Room Experience
12:10 PM - 12:40 PM The Difficulty of Undertaking Preparation Tasks for Different Disasters and Sociodemographics
Dr Amanda Muller, Torrens Resilience Initiative 		Leading At The Political Interface
Stefan Weir, National Emergency Management Agency, New Zealand
12:40 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch with Exhibitors
Experience the interactive lunch in the exhibition! Remember to check the app daily for updates and instructions so you won’t miss any of the special surprises.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM We Recover Better Together
Natasha Odgers, Community Praxis Cooperative & is Jane Willis, Sunshine Coast Council 		Resourcing Innovation and Regional Resilience in the Face of Extreme Weather
Ben Green, Tairawhiti Emergency Management (NZ)
Workshop 1
Workshop 2
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Beyond Command and Control: Conceptualising Leadership Along the “trust Investment” and “decision Interaction Style” Spectra
Rev Dr Mark Layson, Charles Sturt University 		Leaders Make a Difference: Being an Expert Companion
Marianne Dyer, Authentic Connections Psychology Consultants
3:00 PM - 3:35 PM
Join Us For Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors & In-Person Poster Presentations
3:35 PM - 3:45 PM TECH TALK: Live Tech Demos for Disaster Management
Presented By KJR
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM Rise of Community Resilience Hubs: Essential Infrastructure for Resilient Communities
Illya Azaroff FAIA, Principal +lab Architect, Professor Citytech CUNY
4:45 PM - 4:55 PM Day One Wrap Up
Join us on Day One as we wrap up an exciting day of learning, collaboration, and innovation with conference chair Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand
4:55 PM - 5:45 PM The Exhibition Networking Experience: Engage with Industry Leaders Over Drinks
Unwind, connect, and explore in our conference exhibition hall, where industry leaders, cutting-edge technology, and innovative solutions come together to shape the future of disaster and emergency management. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere as you engage with experts, discover the latest advancements, and explore groundbreaking products and services—all while networking over drinks. Whether you're looking to forge new partnerships, experience hands-on demonstrations, or gain insights from top professionals, this is your chance to connect with the people and innovations driving resilience in an ever-changing world.

Royal Poinciana
Norfolk Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day One
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Acknowledge and Welcome: The Land We Gather On
To start the conference, we acknowledge the Yugambeh people, Traditional Custodians of the land, through a Welcome to Country ceremony by the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. This meaningful moment honors their connection to the land and invites us to be mindful of our shared responsibility to care for it.
8:40 AM - 8:55 AM Official Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we officially open DEMC25 and set the stage for an impactful conference. Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand will extend a warm welcome to delegates, share important housekeeping details.
8:55 AM - 9:55 AM Keynote Panel - Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches
Moderator: Des Hosie Commissioner Steve Smith, Queensland Fire Department, Andrew Crisp, CEO Ambulance Victoria, TAS Police Commissioner Donna Adams, SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM From Awareness to Action: Embedding Climate Adaptation in Decision-Making
Michael Nolan, Climate Change Risk and Resilience Leader, Aurecon
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Harnessing Technology and Innovation
Chair: Deborah Bunker 		Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches
Chair: Emily Chapman
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM Drone-as-a-first Responder: the What, Why, How and When
Dr David Cole, Flyfreely 		Enduring Flood Resilience for Queenslanders
Vina Varsani, Queensland Reconstruction Authority & Sam Bowstead, Queensland Department Of Housing And Public Works
11:35 AM - 12:05 PM Embedding Cyber Resilience in Emergency Response and Recovery
Adam Bland, Complete Resilience
Presentation Continued
12:10 PM - 12:40 PM Need for Speed – Time Critical In-Language Access to Emergency Management Victoria’s Disaster Warning System
Tea Dietterich, 2M Language Services 		Defining Queensland's Adf Gap and Implications in Contemporary Disaster Response
Dr Mark Armstrong, Queensland State Emergency Service
12:40 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch with Exhibitors
Experience the interactive lunch in the exhibition! Remember to check the app daily for updates and instructions so you won’t miss any of the special surprises.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Strengthening Crisis Leadership: A Study of Crisis and Humanitarian Leadership Training
Dr Katie McIntyre, Deakin University
Presentation By Juvare Asia Pacific
Workshop 3
Workshop 4
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Adapting to Climate Change: Designing A Climate Change Responsive Mental Health Service Ecosystem
Benjamin Norris, School Of Public Health, University of Queensland 		Healing through Connection: Wayapa Wuurrk in Disaster Recovery
Jem Stone, Wayapa Wuurrk
3:00 PM - 3:35 PM
Join Us For Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors & In-Person Poster Presentations
3:35 PM - 3:45 PM TECH TALK: Live Tech Demos for Disaster Management
Presented By KJR
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM Rise of Community Resilience Hubs: Essential Infrastructure for Resilient Communities
Illya Azaroff FAIA, Principal +lab Architect, Professor Citytech CUNY
4:45 PM - 4:55 PM Day One Wrap Up
Join us on Day One as we wrap up an exciting day of learning, collaboration, and innovation with conference chair Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand
4:55 PM - 5:45 PM The Exhibition Networking Experience: Engage with Industry Leaders Over Drinks
Unwind, connect, and explore in our conference exhibition hall, where industry leaders, cutting-edge technology, and innovative solutions come together to shape the future of disaster and emergency management. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere as you engage with experts, discover the latest advancements, and explore groundbreaking products and services—all while networking over drinks. Whether you're looking to forge new partnerships, experience hands-on demonstrations, or gain insights from top professionals, this is your chance to connect with the people and innovations driving resilience in an ever-changing world.

Prince Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day One
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Acknowledge and Welcome: The Land We Gather On
To start the conference, we acknowledge the Yugambeh people, Traditional Custodians of the land, through a Welcome to Country ceremony by the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. This meaningful moment honors their connection to the land and invites us to be mindful of our shared responsibility to care for it.
8:40 AM - 8:55 AM Official Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we officially open DEMC25 and set the stage for an impactful conference. Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand will extend a warm welcome to delegates, share important housekeeping details.
8:55 AM - 9:55 AM Keynote Panel - Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches
Moderator: Des Hosie Commissioner Steve Smith, Queensland Fire Department, Andrew Crisp, CEO Ambulance Victoria, TAS Police Commissioner Donna Adams, SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM From Awareness to Action: Embedding Climate Adaptation in Decision-Making
Michael Nolan, Climate Change Risk and Resilience Leader, Aurecon
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Strengthening Community-Led and Inclusive Approaches to Safety, Resilience and Ethical Excellence
Chair: Doug Caulfield
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM The Future of Emergency Services Volunteering in Australia! The VolunTeir Model
John Moy, Charles Sturt University
11:35 AM - 12:05 PM Future-Proofing Disaster Response: Engaging the Next Generation to Build Climate-Resilient Communities
Madi Keay, The Charity Collective
12:10 PM - 12:40 PM The Difficulty of Undertaking Preparation Tasks for Different Disasters and Sociodemographics
Dr Amanda Muller, Torrens Resilience Initiative
12:40 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch with Exhibitors
Experience the interactive lunch in the exhibition! Remember to check the app daily for updates and instructions so you won’t miss any of the special surprises.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM We Recover Better Together
Natasha Odgers, Community Praxis Cooperative & is Jane Willis, Sunshine Coast Council
Workshop 1
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Beyond Command and Control: Conceptualising Leadership Along the “trust Investment” and “decision Interaction Style” Spectra
Rev Dr Mark Layson, Charles Sturt University
3:00 PM - 3:35 PM
Join Us For Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors & In-Person Poster Presentations
3:35 PM - 3:45 PM TECH TALK: Live Tech Demos for Disaster Management
Presented By KJR
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM Rise of Community Resilience Hubs: Essential Infrastructure for Resilient Communities
Illya Azaroff FAIA, Principal +lab Architect, Professor Citytech CUNY
4:45 PM - 4:55 PM Day One Wrap Up
Join us on Day One as we wrap up an exciting day of learning, collaboration, and innovation with conference chair Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand
4:55 PM - 5:45 PM The Exhibition Networking Experience: Engage with Industry Leaders Over Drinks
Unwind, connect, and explore in our conference exhibition hall, where industry leaders, cutting-edge technology, and innovative solutions come together to shape the future of disaster and emergency management. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere as you engage with experts, discover the latest advancements, and explore groundbreaking products and services—all while networking over drinks. Whether you're looking to forge new partnerships, experience hands-on demonstrations, or gain insights from top professionals, this is your chance to connect with the people and innovations driving resilience in an ever-changing world.

Monarch Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day One
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Acknowledge and Welcome: The Land We Gather On
To start the conference, we acknowledge the Yugambeh people, Traditional Custodians of the land, through a Welcome to Country ceremony by the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. This meaningful moment honors their connection to the land and invites us to be mindful of our shared responsibility to care for it.
8:40 AM - 8:55 AM Official Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we officially open DEMC25 and set the stage for an impactful conference. Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand will extend a warm welcome to delegates, share important housekeeping details.
8:55 AM - 9:55 AM Keynote Panel - Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches
Moderator: Des Hosie Commissioner Steve Smith, Queensland Fire Department, Andrew Crisp, CEO Ambulance Victoria, TAS Police Commissioner Donna Adams, SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM From Awareness to Action: Embedding Climate Adaptation in Decision-Making
Michael Nolan, Climate Change Risk and Resilience Leader, Aurecon
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration
Chair: Rev. Dr Mark Layson
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM Closing the Future Skills Gap: Mapping Pathways for the Next Generation of Emergency Management Practitioners
Kate Retzki, Office of the Inspector-General of Emergency Management
11:35 AM - 12:05 PM "Now I Know What It Feels Like" - Training for the Real Thing
Scott Campbell, Nxus The War Room Experience
12:10 PM - 12:40 PM Leading At The Political Interface
Stefan Weir, National Emergency Management Agency, New Zealand
12:40 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch with Exhibitors
Experience the interactive lunch in the exhibition! Remember to check the app daily for updates and instructions so you won’t miss any of the special surprises.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Resourcing Innovation and Regional Resilience in the Face of Extreme Weather
Ben Green, Tairawhiti Emergency Management (NZ)
Workshop 2
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Leaders Make a Difference: Being an Expert Companion
Marianne Dyer, Authentic Connections Psychology Consultants
3:00 PM - 3:35 PM
Join Us For Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors & In-Person Poster Presentations
3:35 PM - 3:45 PM TECH TALK: Live Tech Demos for Disaster Management
Presented By KJR
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM Rise of Community Resilience Hubs: Essential Infrastructure for Resilient Communities
Illya Azaroff FAIA, Principal +lab Architect, Professor Citytech CUNY
4:45 PM - 4:55 PM Day One Wrap Up
Join us on Day One as we wrap up an exciting day of learning, collaboration, and innovation with conference chair Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand
4:55 PM - 5:45 PM The Exhibition Networking Experience: Engage with Industry Leaders Over Drinks
Unwind, connect, and explore in our conference exhibition hall, where industry leaders, cutting-edge technology, and innovative solutions come together to shape the future of disaster and emergency management. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere as you engage with experts, discover the latest advancements, and explore groundbreaking products and services—all while networking over drinks. Whether you're looking to forge new partnerships, experience hands-on demonstrations, or gain insights from top professionals, this is your chance to connect with the people and innovations driving resilience in an ever-changing world.

Royal Poinciana
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day One
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Acknowledge and Welcome: The Land We Gather On
To start the conference, we acknowledge the Yugambeh people, Traditional Custodians of the land, through a Welcome to Country ceremony by the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. This meaningful moment honors their connection to the land and invites us to be mindful of our shared responsibility to care for it.
8:40 AM - 8:55 AM Official Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we officially open DEMC25 and set the stage for an impactful conference. Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand will extend a warm welcome to delegates, share important housekeeping details.
8:55 AM - 9:55 AM Keynote Panel - Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches
Moderator: Des Hosie Commissioner Steve Smith, Queensland Fire Department, Andrew Crisp, CEO Ambulance Victoria, TAS Police Commissioner Donna Adams, SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM From Awareness to Action: Embedding Climate Adaptation in Decision-Making
Michael Nolan, Climate Change Risk and Resilience Leader, Aurecon
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Harnessing Technology and Innovation
Chair: Deborah Bunker
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM Drone-as-a-first Responder: the What, Why, How and When
Dr David Cole, Flyfreely
11:35 AM - 12:05 PM Embedding Cyber Resilience in Emergency Response and Recovery
Adam Bland, Complete Resilience
12:10 PM - 12:40 PM Need for Speed – Time Critical In-Language Access to Emergency Management Victoria’s Disaster Warning System
Tea Dietterich, 2M Language Services
12:40 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch with Exhibitors
Experience the interactive lunch in the exhibition! Remember to check the app daily for updates and instructions so you won’t miss any of the special surprises.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM Strengthening Crisis Leadership: A Study of Crisis and Humanitarian Leadership Training
Dr Katie McIntyre, Deakin University
Workshop 3
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Adapting to Climate Change: Designing A Climate Change Responsive Mental Health Service Ecosystem
Benjamin Norris, School Of Public Health, University of Queensland
3:00 PM - 3:35 PM
Join Us For Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors & In-Person Poster Presentations
3:35 PM - 3:45 PM TECH TALK: Live Tech Demos for Disaster Management
Presented By KJR
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM Rise of Community Resilience Hubs: Essential Infrastructure for Resilient Communities
Illya Azaroff FAIA, Principal +lab Architect, Professor Citytech CUNY
4:45 PM - 4:55 PM Day One Wrap Up
Join us on Day One as we wrap up an exciting day of learning, collaboration, and innovation with conference chair Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand
4:55 PM - 5:45 PM The Exhibition Networking Experience: Engage with Industry Leaders Over Drinks
Unwind, connect, and explore in our conference exhibition hall, where industry leaders, cutting-edge technology, and innovative solutions come together to shape the future of disaster and emergency management. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere as you engage with experts, discover the latest advancements, and explore groundbreaking products and services—all while networking over drinks. Whether you're looking to forge new partnerships, experience hands-on demonstrations, or gain insights from top professionals, this is your chance to connect with the people and innovations driving resilience in an ever-changing world.

Norfolk Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day One
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Acknowledge and Welcome: The Land We Gather On
To start the conference, we acknowledge the Yugambeh people, Traditional Custodians of the land, through a Welcome to Country ceremony by the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. This meaningful moment honors their connection to the land and invites us to be mindful of our shared responsibility to care for it.
8:40 AM - 8:55 AM Official Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we officially open DEMC25 and set the stage for an impactful conference. Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand will extend a warm welcome to delegates, share important housekeeping details.
8:55 AM - 9:55 AM Keynote Panel - Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches
Moderator: Des Hosie Commissioner Steve Smith, Queensland Fire Department, Andrew Crisp, CEO Ambulance Victoria, TAS Police Commissioner Donna Adams, SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM From Awareness to Action: Embedding Climate Adaptation in Decision-Making
Michael Nolan, Climate Change Risk and Resilience Leader, Aurecon
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches
Chair: Emily Chapman
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM Enduring Flood Resilience for Queenslanders
Vina Varsani, Queensland Reconstruction Authority & Sam Bowstead, Queensland Department Of Housing And Public Works
11:35 AM - 12:05 PM
Presentation Continued
12:10 PM - 12:40 PM Defining Queensland's Adf Gap and Implications in Contemporary Disaster Response
Dr Mark Armstrong, Queensland State Emergency Service
12:40 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch with Exhibitors
Experience the interactive lunch in the exhibition! Remember to check the app daily for updates and instructions so you won’t miss any of the special surprises.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Presentation By Juvare Asia Pacific
Workshop 4
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Healing through Connection: Wayapa Wuurrk in Disaster Recovery
Jem Stone, Wayapa Wuurrk
3:00 PM - 3:35 PM
Join Us For Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors & In-Person Poster Presentations
3:35 PM - 3:45 PM TECH TALK: Live Tech Demos for Disaster Management
Presented By KJR
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM Rise of Community Resilience Hubs: Essential Infrastructure for Resilient Communities
Illya Azaroff FAIA, Principal +lab Architect, Professor Citytech CUNY
4:45 PM - 4:55 PM Day One Wrap Up
Join us on Day One as we wrap up an exciting day of learning, collaboration, and innovation with conference chair Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand
4:55 PM - 5:45 PM The Exhibition Networking Experience: Engage with Industry Leaders Over Drinks
Unwind, connect, and explore in our conference exhibition hall, where industry leaders, cutting-edge technology, and innovative solutions come together to shape the future of disaster and emergency management. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere as you engage with experts, discover the latest advancements, and explore groundbreaking products and services—all while networking over drinks. Whether you're looking to forge new partnerships, experience hands-on demonstrations, or gain insights from top professionals, this is your chance to connect with the people and innovations driving resilience in an ever-changing world.

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Prince Room
Monarch Room
Royal Poinciana
Norfolk Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day Two
Welcome to Day 2! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Day Two Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we start Day Two with a warm welcome from Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand. This session will outline today’s highlights, provide key housekeeping updates, and set the tone for another inspiring day ahead.
8:45 AM - 9:15 AM Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration - Weaving Theory, Practice, Community and the Future Together
Al Lawn, Selwyn District Council, Head of Emergency Management
9:20 AM - 9:50 AM Courage Under Crisis: Pacific Island Resilience in a Changing Climate
Kate Brown, Executive Director, Global Island Partnership
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM Learning From Past Cyclones and Bushfires to Inform New Risk Planning
Tracy Gosling, Vice President - APAC Dataminr
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea with Exhibitors.
Comprehensive Disaster Risk Reduction and Preparedness for Complex Emergencies
Chair: Andrew Parnell 		Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration.
Chair: Mona Curry 		Harnessing Technology and Innovation.
Chair: 		Elevating Business and Infrastructure Resilience for Disaster Preparedness and Recovery
Chair:
10:50 AM - 11:10 AM Rising Biosecurity Threats: Advancing Response Readiness
Dr Rachel Chay, Biosecurity Queensland 		The Intersection of Cyber Threats and Emergency Management, Unified by AIIMS
Michael Billett, The Government Of South Australia 		Logic and Reason: The Statistical Case for Smashing the Patriarchy to Improve Post-Disaster Mental Health
Loriana Bethune, Gender and Disaster Australia 		Building Emergency Management in NZ and Lessons from Recent Events
Eddie Hebert & Patrick Cummuskey, Ministry Of Business Innovation And Employment
11:15 AM - 11:35 AM The Complexities of Planning for Domestic Family Violence Before, During and After an Emergency
Andrew Williams, Charles Sturt University 		A System Under Stress: Observing Strengths, Weaknesses and Pressure Points in a Rapidly Changing World
Alistair Dawson, Office of the Inspector-General of Emergency Management 		Presentation to be announced Presentation by QPS
Acting QPS Commissioner Chelepy, Queensland Police Service
11:40 AM - 12:00 PM Investigating Willingness to Drive Through Floods and Bushfires: a Content Analysis and Discrete Choice Survey
Sara Fazeli, UNSW 		Emergency Management Information Self Preparedness Package: Outcomes from a Regional and Rural Seniors Project
Dr Melissa Taylor, University of Southern Queensland 		Streaming the Approach to Flood Warnings to the Gold Coast Community
David Youssef, City of Gold Coast 		PRE RECORDED: Driving Sustainable Uplift for an Uncertain Future Through Emergency Planning and Exercises
Chiana Sherwood, Auckland Airport
12:05 PM - 12:25 PM The CADEM Framework: Complex Adaptive DEM For Practitioners
Todd Miller, NEMA (NZ) 		Overcoming Challenges and Adapting: Strengthening Local Council Staff in Emergency Management
Jo Lynskey, Western Bay Of Plenty District Council 		The Impact of Early Wildfire Detection Systems
Dr Christopher Tylor, exci pty ltd 		Business Continuity - Being Prepared for an Ever Increasingly Disruptive World
Matt Shaw, Ministry of Business Innovation And Employment
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch with Exhibitors.
Strengthening Community-Led and Inclusive Approaches to Safety, Resilience and Ethical Excellence.
Chair: Grant Marcus 		Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches.
Chair: 		Disasters, Trauma & Communication: Navigating Crisis Response in a Changing World
Chair: 		Leadership, Risk & Resilience: Strengthening Disaster Preparedness & Response
Chair:
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM Enhancing Preparedness and Resilience of the Minjerribah Community (North Stradbroke Island)
Miss Felicity Bradford & Dr Nancy Spencer, Griffith University 		Emergency Animal Disease Outbreak: Understanding Public Sentiment Toward Destruction, Disposal and Vaccination to Inform Communications
Olivia Gardner, Department of Primary Industries 		Understanding Trauma and Psychological First Aid in Disaster and Emergency Management
Dr Adam Lo, Metro South Health 		Impact of Disasters on Hospitals from Aotearoa
Dr Natasha Duncan-Sutherland, Te Toka Tumai, Auckland
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM Time to Think Out of the Box When It Comes to Community-led Resilience
Liz Mackinlay, Australian Business Volunteers 		Resilience Ratings: Australian Innovation Building Stronger Homes and Communities
David Henderson & Kate Cotter, Resilient Building Council 		AI Translation Tools and Community Reflections on Multilingual Emergency Communication
Professor Raelene Wilding, Emma Koster La Trobe University 		Presentation By Tait Communications
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM Embracing a Co-Design Future: Queensland's Vision for Place-based Disaster Resilience
Dianne Grey, Queensland Reconstruction Authority 		Resilience in Action: Building Communities That Can Take It
Dana MacDiarmid, New Zealand National Emergency Management Agency 		What Happens When an Earthquake Impacts a City?
Brenden Winder, Christchurch City Council - Emergency Management 		Moving Wicked Problems Through the Lessons Management Framework: The Role of Residual Risk Assessment
Alexandra (Alex) Murray, NSW DPIRD
2:40 PM - 3:00 PM Enabling Flood Resilient Communities Through Innovation and Enhanced Decision Support Systems
Grant Maxwell & Nicole Bichel, Stantec 		Presentation to be announced. Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: Gladstone’s Progress in Tsunami Risk Management
Dr Jane Sexton & Emma Catlin, Queensland Fire Department 		Seismic Shifts: Communicating Risk to Coordinate Multi-Agency Disaster Preparedness
Caroline Rowe, University Of Otago
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors.
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM Spit, Blu Tack, and Resilience: Innovating Emergency Management with Limited Resources
Liam Scott, Operational Systems, National Emergency Management Agency
4:05 PM - 4:35 PM Trust Under Pressure: Believable, Dependable Communication Before, During and After Emergencies
Dr Neryl East, Director, Neryl East Communications
4:40 PM - 4:50 PM Conference Chair Wrap Up
Join us as we wrap up an incredible two days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand, will guide us through the key learnings from the conference, highlight pivotal moments, and formally close the event. This session will also include the highly anticipated prize draw—don’t miss your chance to win! Let’s reflect on our shared journey and leave inspired to make an impact.
Prince Room
Monarch Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day Two
Welcome to Day 2! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Day Two Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we start Day Two with a warm welcome from Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand. This session will outline today’s highlights, provide key housekeeping updates, and set the tone for another inspiring day ahead.
8:45 AM - 9:15 AM Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration - Weaving Theory, Practice, Community and the Future Together
Al Lawn, Selwyn District Council, Head of Emergency Management
9:20 AM - 9:50 AM Courage Under Crisis: Pacific Island Resilience in a Changing Climate
Kate Brown, Executive Director, Global Island Partnership
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM Learning From Past Cyclones and Bushfires to Inform New Risk Planning
Tracy Gosling, Vice President - APAC Dataminr
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea with Exhibitors.
Comprehensive Disaster Risk Reduction and Preparedness for Complex Emergencies
Chair: Andrew Parnell 		Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration.
Chair: Mona Curry
10:50 AM - 11:10 AM Rising Biosecurity Threats: Advancing Response Readiness
Dr Rachel Chay, Biosecurity Queensland 		The Intersection of Cyber Threats and Emergency Management, Unified by AIIMS
Michael Billett, The Government Of South Australia
11:15 AM - 11:35 AM The Complexities of Planning for Domestic Family Violence Before, During and After an Emergency
Andrew Williams, Charles Sturt University 		A System Under Stress: Observing Strengths, Weaknesses and Pressure Points in a Rapidly Changing World
Alistair Dawson, Office of the Inspector-General of Emergency Management
11:40 AM - 12:00 PM Investigating Willingness to Drive Through Floods and Bushfires: a Content Analysis and Discrete Choice Survey
Sara Fazeli, UNSW 		Emergency Management Information Self Preparedness Package: Outcomes from a Regional and Rural Seniors Project
Dr Melissa Taylor, University of Southern Queensland
12:05 PM - 12:25 PM The CADEM Framework: Complex Adaptive DEM For Practitioners
Todd Miller, NEMA (NZ) 		Overcoming Challenges and Adapting: Strengthening Local Council Staff in Emergency Management
Jo Lynskey, Western Bay Of Plenty District Council
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch with Exhibitors.
Strengthening Community-Led and Inclusive Approaches to Safety, Resilience and Ethical Excellence.
Chair: Grant Marcus 		Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches.
Chair:
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM Enhancing Preparedness and Resilience of the Minjerribah Community (North Stradbroke Island)
Miss Felicity Bradford & Dr Nancy Spencer, Griffith University 		Emergency Animal Disease Outbreak: Understanding Public Sentiment Toward Destruction, Disposal and Vaccination to Inform Communications
Olivia Gardner, Department of Primary Industries
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM Time to Think Out of the Box When It Comes to Community-led Resilience
Liz Mackinlay, Australian Business Volunteers 		Resilience Ratings: Australian Innovation Building Stronger Homes and Communities
David Henderson & Kate Cotter, Resilient Building Council
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM Embracing a Co-Design Future: Queensland's Vision for Place-based Disaster Resilience
Dianne Grey, Queensland Reconstruction Authority 		Resilience in Action: Building Communities That Can Take It
Dana MacDiarmid, New Zealand National Emergency Management Agency
2:40 PM - 3:00 PM Enabling Flood Resilient Communities Through Innovation and Enhanced Decision Support Systems
Grant Maxwell & Nicole Bichel, Stantec 		Presentation to be announced.
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors.
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM Spit, Blu Tack, and Resilience: Innovating Emergency Management with Limited Resources
Liam Scott, Operational Systems, National Emergency Management Agency
4:05 PM - 4:35 PM Trust Under Pressure: Believable, Dependable Communication Before, During and After Emergencies
Dr Neryl East, Director, Neryl East Communications
4:40 PM - 4:50 PM Conference Chair Wrap Up
Join us as we wrap up an incredible two days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand, will guide us through the key learnings from the conference, highlight pivotal moments, and formally close the event. This session will also include the highly anticipated prize draw—don’t miss your chance to win! Let’s reflect on our shared journey and leave inspired to make an impact.

Royal Poinciana
Norfolk Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day Two
Welcome to Day 2! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Day Two Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we start Day Two with a warm welcome from Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand. This session will outline today’s highlights, provide key housekeeping updates, and set the tone for another inspiring day ahead.
8:45 AM - 9:15 AM Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration - Weaving Theory, Practice, Community and the Future Together
Al Lawn, Selwyn District Council, Head of Emergency Management
9:20 AM - 9:50 AM Courage Under Crisis: Pacific Island Resilience in a Changing Climate
Kate Brown, Executive Director, Global Island Partnership
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM Learning From Past Cyclones and Bushfires to Inform New Risk Planning
Tracy Gosling, Vice President - APAC Dataminr
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea with Exhibitors.
Harnessing Technology and Innovation.
Chair: 		Elevating Business and Infrastructure Resilience for Disaster Preparedness and Recovery
Chair:
10:50 AM - 11:10 AM Logic and Reason: The Statistical Case for Smashing the Patriarchy to Improve Post-Disaster Mental Health
Loriana Bethune, Gender and Disaster Australia 		Building Emergency Management in NZ and Lessons from Recent Events
Eddie Hebert & Patrick Cummuskey, Ministry Of Business Innovation And Employment
11:15 AM - 11:35 AM Presentation to be announced Presentation by QPS
Acting QPS Commissioner Chelepy, Queensland Police Service
11:40 AM - 12:00 PM Streaming the Approach to Flood Warnings to the Gold Coast Community
David Youssef, City of Gold Coast 		PRE RECORDED: Driving Sustainable Uplift for an Uncertain Future Through Emergency Planning and Exercises
Chiana Sherwood, Auckland Airport
12:05 PM - 12:25 PM The Impact of Early Wildfire Detection Systems
Dr Christopher Tylor, exci pty ltd 		Business Continuity - Being Prepared for an Ever Increasingly Disruptive World
Matt Shaw, Ministry of Business Innovation And Employment
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch with Exhibitors.
Disasters, Trauma & Communication: Navigating Crisis Response in a Changing World
Chair: 		Leadership, Risk & Resilience: Strengthening Disaster Preparedness & Response
Chair:
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM Understanding Trauma and Psychological First Aid in Disaster and Emergency Management
Dr Adam Lo, Metro South Health 		Impact of Disasters on Hospitals from Aotearoa
Dr Natasha Duncan-Sutherland, Te Toka Tumai, Auckland
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM AI Translation Tools and Community Reflections on Multilingual Emergency Communication
Professor Raelene Wilding, Emma Koster La Trobe University 		Presentation By Tait Communications
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM What Happens When an Earthquake Impacts a City?
Brenden Winder, Christchurch City Council - Emergency Management 		Moving Wicked Problems Through the Lessons Management Framework: The Role of Residual Risk Assessment
Alexandra (Alex) Murray, NSW DPIRD
2:40 PM - 3:00 PM Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: Gladstone’s Progress in Tsunami Risk Management
Dr Jane Sexton & Emma Catlin, Queensland Fire Department 		Seismic Shifts: Communicating Risk to Coordinate Multi-Agency Disaster Preparedness
Caroline Rowe, University Of Otago
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors.
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM Spit, Blu Tack, and Resilience: Innovating Emergency Management with Limited Resources
Liam Scott, Operational Systems, National Emergency Management Agency
4:05 PM - 4:35 PM Trust Under Pressure: Believable, Dependable Communication Before, During and After Emergencies
Dr Neryl East, Director, Neryl East Communications
4:40 PM - 4:50 PM Conference Chair Wrap Up
Join us as we wrap up an incredible two days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand, will guide us through the key learnings from the conference, highlight pivotal moments, and formally close the event. This session will also include the highly anticipated prize draw—don’t miss your chance to win! Let’s reflect on our shared journey and leave inspired to make an impact.

Prince Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day Two
Welcome to Day 2! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Day Two Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we start Day Two with a warm welcome from Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand. This session will outline today’s highlights, provide key housekeeping updates, and set the tone for another inspiring day ahead.
8:45 AM - 9:15 AM Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration - Weaving Theory, Practice, Community and the Future Together
Al Lawn, Selwyn District Council, Head of Emergency Management
9:20 AM - 9:50 AM Courage Under Crisis: Pacific Island Resilience in a Changing Climate
Kate Brown, Executive Director, Global Island Partnership
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM Learning From Past Cyclones and Bushfires to Inform New Risk Planning
Tracy Gosling, Vice President - APAC Dataminr
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea with Exhibitors.
Comprehensive Disaster Risk Reduction and Preparedness for Complex Emergencies
Chair: Andrew Parnell
10:50 AM - 11:10 AM Rising Biosecurity Threats: Advancing Response Readiness
Dr Rachel Chay, Biosecurity Queensland
11:15 AM - 11:35 AM The Complexities of Planning for Domestic Family Violence Before, During and After an Emergency
Andrew Williams, Charles Sturt University
11:40 AM - 12:00 PM Investigating Willingness to Drive Through Floods and Bushfires: a Content Analysis and Discrete Choice Survey
Sara Fazeli, UNSW
12:05 PM - 12:25 PM The CADEM Framework: Complex Adaptive DEM For Practitioners
Todd Miller, NEMA (NZ)
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch with Exhibitors.
Strengthening Community-Led and Inclusive Approaches to Safety, Resilience and Ethical Excellence.
Chair: Grant Marcus
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM Enhancing Preparedness and Resilience of the Minjerribah Community (North Stradbroke Island)
Miss Felicity Bradford & Dr Nancy Spencer, Griffith University
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM Time to Think Out of the Box When It Comes to Community-led Resilience
Liz Mackinlay, Australian Business Volunteers
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM Embracing a Co-Design Future: Queensland's Vision for Place-based Disaster Resilience
Dianne Grey, Queensland Reconstruction Authority
2:40 PM - 3:00 PM Enabling Flood Resilient Communities Through Innovation and Enhanced Decision Support Systems
Grant Maxwell & Nicole Bichel, Stantec
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors.
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM Spit, Blu Tack, and Resilience: Innovating Emergency Management with Limited Resources
Liam Scott, Operational Systems, National Emergency Management Agency
4:05 PM - 4:35 PM Trust Under Pressure: Believable, Dependable Communication Before, During and After Emergencies
Dr Neryl East, Director, Neryl East Communications
4:40 PM - 4:50 PM Conference Chair Wrap Up
Join us as we wrap up an incredible two days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand, will guide us through the key learnings from the conference, highlight pivotal moments, and formally close the event. This session will also include the highly anticipated prize draw—don’t miss your chance to win! Let’s reflect on our shared journey and leave inspired to make an impact.

Monarch Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day Two
Welcome to Day 2! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Day Two Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we start Day Two with a warm welcome from Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand. This session will outline today’s highlights, provide key housekeeping updates, and set the tone for another inspiring day ahead.
8:45 AM - 9:15 AM Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration - Weaving Theory, Practice, Community and the Future Together
Al Lawn, Selwyn District Council, Head of Emergency Management
9:20 AM - 9:50 AM Courage Under Crisis: Pacific Island Resilience in a Changing Climate
Kate Brown, Executive Director, Global Island Partnership
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM Learning From Past Cyclones and Bushfires to Inform New Risk Planning
Tracy Gosling, Vice President - APAC Dataminr
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea with Exhibitors.
Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration.
Chair: Mona Curry
10:50 AM - 11:10 AM The Intersection of Cyber Threats and Emergency Management, Unified by AIIMS
Michael Billett, The Government Of South Australia
11:15 AM - 11:35 AM A System Under Stress: Observing Strengths, Weaknesses and Pressure Points in a Rapidly Changing World
Alistair Dawson, Office of the Inspector-General of Emergency Management
11:40 AM - 12:00 PM Emergency Management Information Self Preparedness Package: Outcomes from a Regional and Rural Seniors Project
Dr Melissa Taylor, University of Southern Queensland
12:05 PM - 12:25 PM Overcoming Challenges and Adapting: Strengthening Local Council Staff in Emergency Management
Jo Lynskey, Western Bay Of Plenty District Council
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch with Exhibitors.
Drawing Lessons from Experience: Case Studies, Practical Insights and Innovative Approaches.
Chair:
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM Emergency Animal Disease Outbreak: Understanding Public Sentiment Toward Destruction, Disposal and Vaccination to Inform Communications
Olivia Gardner, Department of Primary Industries
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM Resilience Ratings: Australian Innovation Building Stronger Homes and Communities
David Henderson & Kate Cotter, Resilient Building Council
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM Resilience in Action: Building Communities That Can Take It
Dana MacDiarmid, New Zealand National Emergency Management Agency
2:40 PM - 3:00 PM Presentation to be announced.
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors.
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM Spit, Blu Tack, and Resilience: Innovating Emergency Management with Limited Resources
Liam Scott, Operational Systems, National Emergency Management Agency
4:05 PM - 4:35 PM Trust Under Pressure: Believable, Dependable Communication Before, During and After Emergencies
Dr Neryl East, Director, Neryl East Communications
4:40 PM - 4:50 PM Conference Chair Wrap Up
Join us as we wrap up an incredible two days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand, will guide us through the key learnings from the conference, highlight pivotal moments, and formally close the event. This session will also include the highly anticipated prize draw—don’t miss your chance to win! Let’s reflect on our shared journey and leave inspired to make an impact.

Royal Poinciana
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day Two
Welcome to Day 2! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Day Two Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we start Day Two with a warm welcome from Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand. This session will outline today’s highlights, provide key housekeeping updates, and set the tone for another inspiring day ahead.
8:45 AM - 9:15 AM Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration - Weaving Theory, Practice, Community and the Future Together
Al Lawn, Selwyn District Council, Head of Emergency Management
9:20 AM - 9:50 AM Courage Under Crisis: Pacific Island Resilience in a Changing Climate
Kate Brown, Executive Director, Global Island Partnership
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM Learning From Past Cyclones and Bushfires to Inform New Risk Planning
Tracy Gosling, Vice President - APAC Dataminr
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea with Exhibitors.
Harnessing Technology and Innovation.
Chair:
10:50 AM - 11:10 AM Logic and Reason: The Statistical Case for Smashing the Patriarchy to Improve Post-Disaster Mental Health
Loriana Bethune, Gender and Disaster Australia
11:15 AM - 11:35 AM Presentation to be announced
11:40 AM - 12:00 PM Streaming the Approach to Flood Warnings to the Gold Coast Community
David Youssef, City of Gold Coast
12:05 PM - 12:25 PM The Impact of Early Wildfire Detection Systems
Dr Christopher Tylor, exci pty ltd
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch with Exhibitors.
Disasters, Trauma & Communication: Navigating Crisis Response in a Changing World
Chair:
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM Understanding Trauma and Psychological First Aid in Disaster and Emergency Management
Dr Adam Lo, Metro South Health
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM AI Translation Tools and Community Reflections on Multilingual Emergency Communication
Professor Raelene Wilding, Emma Koster La Trobe University
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM What Happens When an Earthquake Impacts a City?
Brenden Winder, Christchurch City Council - Emergency Management
2:40 PM - 3:00 PM Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: Gladstone’s Progress in Tsunami Risk Management
Dr Jane Sexton & Emma Catlin, Queensland Fire Department
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors.
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM Spit, Blu Tack, and Resilience: Innovating Emergency Management with Limited Resources
Liam Scott, Operational Systems, National Emergency Management Agency
4:05 PM - 4:35 PM Trust Under Pressure: Believable, Dependable Communication Before, During and After Emergencies
Dr Neryl East, Director, Neryl East Communications
4:40 PM - 4:50 PM Conference Chair Wrap Up
Join us as we wrap up an incredible two days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand, will guide us through the key learnings from the conference, highlight pivotal moments, and formally close the event. This session will also include the highly anticipated prize draw—don’t miss your chance to win! Let’s reflect on our shared journey and leave inspired to make an impact.

Norfolk Room
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open - Day Two
Welcome to Day 2! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM Day Two Welcome and Housekeeping
Join us as we start Day Two with a warm welcome from Conference Chair, Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand. This session will outline today’s highlights, provide key housekeeping updates, and set the tone for another inspiring day ahead.
8:45 AM - 9:15 AM Advancing Professionalisation, Leadership and Integration - Weaving Theory, Practice, Community and the Future Together
Al Lawn, Selwyn District Council, Head of Emergency Management
9:20 AM - 9:50 AM Courage Under Crisis: Pacific Island Resilience in a Changing Climate
Kate Brown, Executive Director, Global Island Partnership
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM Learning From Past Cyclones and Bushfires to Inform New Risk Planning
Tracy Gosling, Vice President - APAC Dataminr
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea with Exhibitors.
Elevating Business and Infrastructure Resilience for Disaster Preparedness and Recovery
Chair:
10:50 AM - 11:10 AM Building Emergency Management in NZ and Lessons from Recent Events
Eddie Hebert & Patrick Cummuskey, Ministry Of Business Innovation And Employment
11:15 AM - 11:35 AM Presentation by QPS
Acting QPS Commissioner Chelepy, Queensland Police Service
11:40 AM - 12:00 PM PRE RECORDED: Driving Sustainable Uplift for an Uncertain Future Through Emergency Planning and Exercises
Chiana Sherwood, Auckland Airport
12:05 PM - 12:25 PM Business Continuity - Being Prepared for an Ever Increasingly Disruptive World
Matt Shaw, Ministry of Business Innovation And Employment
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch with Exhibitors.
Leadership, Risk & Resilience: Strengthening Disaster Preparedness & Response
Chair:
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM Impact of Disasters on Hospitals from Aotearoa
Dr Natasha Duncan-Sutherland, Te Toka Tumai, Auckland
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM Presentation By Tait Communications
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM Moving Wicked Problems Through the Lessons Management Framework: The Role of Residual Risk Assessment
Alexandra (Alex) Murray, NSW DPIRD
2:40 PM - 3:00 PM Seismic Shifts: Communicating Risk to Coordinate Multi-Agency Disaster Preparedness
Caroline Rowe, University Of Otago
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors.
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM Spit, Blu Tack, and Resilience: Innovating Emergency Management with Limited Resources
Liam Scott, Operational Systems, National Emergency Management Agency
4:05 PM - 4:35 PM Trust Under Pressure: Believable, Dependable Communication Before, During and After Emergencies
Dr Neryl East, Director, Neryl East Communications
4:40 PM - 4:50 PM Conference Chair Wrap Up
Join us as we wrap up an incredible two days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Des Hosie, National Operations Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand, will guide us through the key learnings from the conference, highlight pivotal moments, and formally close the event. This session will also include the highly anticipated prize draw—don’t miss your chance to win! Let’s reflect on our shared journey and leave inspired to make an impact.

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