New website in case of emergency

By Adam Coleman

A new internet portal that enables the public to access emergency information across Australia in a whole-of-government initiative that will provide links to emergency management organisations in every state and territory.

The Australian Disaster Information Network (AusDIN) was launched on Friday by the Attorney-General, Philip Ruddock, at a meeting of emergency services ministers in Adelaide and he says it will prove invaluable and the timing is particularly relevant “with the summer natural disaster season upon us”.

“With the internet being such a popular source of information, this initiative will give people the information they need to learn about events such as bushfires, floods or cyclones,” says Mr Ruddock in a statement.

The AusDIN portal operates primarily as a gateway or ‘signpost’, which directs users to emergency management related information and services provided by government and in future, selected non-government organisations.

Able to tap into weather reports, spatial information, warnings and alerts and provide information on preparing for disasters and what to do in times of evacuation, AusDIN will also provide links to recovery organisations, charity and support groups, and international links.