Kristy McBain, Member for Eden-Monaro, has been sworn in as the Federal Minister for Emergency Management, while continuing her position as Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories. Ms McBain said she is proud to be continuing the Australian Government’s commitment to disaster preparedness as well as strengthening regional communities.
PHOTO: Kristy McBain left was officially sworn in today by the Govenor General of Australia – Sam Mostyn AO
Ms McBain expressed her dedication to her roles, recalling her maiden speech to Parliament where she pledged to “supercharge the response to bushfire recovery.” The community of Eden-Monaro, having experienced severe bushfires, serves as a backdrop for her ongoing mission.
“I am incredibly proud to be part of a government that is serious about reducing disaster risk,” Ms McBain stated, recognising the initiatives under the leadership of Minster Watt and Minister McAllister. These initiatives include the launch of the National Emergency Management Agency and the Disaster Ready Fund, as well as investments in Disaster Relief Australia, the National Emergency Management Stockpile, and enhanced National Aerial Firefighting capabilities.
PHOTO: Ms McBain now holds the ministerial role for Emergency Management
Ms McBain noted the government’s efforts in delivering all 15 Commonwealth-led recommendations from the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements, emphasising the improvement of disaster resilience in telecommunications networks. She acknowledged the support of Assistant Minister Wilson in advancing the National Messaging System.
Alongside her responsibility in emergency management, Ms McBain collaborates with Minister King to “strengthen the local government sector,” highlighting its dual role in disaster response and community service delivery. She achieved recognition for reintegrating local government as a “trusted delivery partner” through various forums, increasing local road funding, and launching equitable grant programmes.
Expressing her commitment to regional Australia, Ms McBain stated, “I have always lived in our regions and love the quality of life it affords us,” pledging to advocate for fair representation and resources allocation for Eden-Monaro and beyond. Ms McBain advised of the Federal Government’s continued support for councils and the response to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Local Government Sustainability, which remain high on the agenda for this term.