Emergency management system gets new rules
The Act sets a national and local framework for preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies.
Emergency Management Act 2026 · Starts 4 Sep 2026
What's changing
- Local authorities must coordinate emergency planning and activities through Emergency Management Committees.
- Emergency management must cover risk reduction, readiness, response, and recovery.
- National and local emergency planning will be aligned through a national strategy and plan.
- Agencies and organisations will be encouraged to work together to prevent and manage emergencies.
Who's affected
Local authorities, Emergency Management Committees, government agencies, other organisations involved in emergencies, communities, and the public are affected.
When
Most provisions start on 4 September 2026; compliance-order provisions start on 3 March 2027, and some listed provisions start on 3 September 2027.
What you might need to do
- Local authorities must coordinate emergency planning and activities through Emergency Management Committees.
- Organisations involved in emergency management may need to coordinate their planning and activities.
Background
The Act’s stated purpose is to improve hazard and emergency management and support the public’s social, economic, cultural, environmental well-being and safety. It also aims to protect property and help communities identify, assess, communicate about, and reduce risks.