The Cessnock Local Government Area (LGA) is a dynamic region with diverse communities, landscapes, and natural features. From bushland and farmland to town centres and villages, our region’s beauty is matched by its exposure to a range of natural and human-made hazards. Bushfires, storms, floods, heatwaves, and even earthquakes can affect Cessnock communities, sometimes without warning. That’s why emergency management and long-term disaster resilience are essential for everyone in our community, including residents, businesses, and organisations alike.
Emergency management is a shared responsibility in New South Wales, and across Australia. Cessnock City Council works closely with emergency service agencies, community organisations, and the wider NSW Government to plan for, respond to, and recover from emergencies and disasters. Council plays a key role in local emergency planning, infrastructure and asset management, public information, and supporting multi-agency operations when the Local Emergency Operations Centre is activated.
Building disaster resilience goes beyond emergency response. It involves reducing risk, strengthening community capacity, and improving recovery outcomes before the next event occurs. Guided by the NSW Emergency Management Arrangements, the National Disaster Risk Reduction Framework, the NSW State Disaster Mitigation Plan, and local population, climate, and hazard data, Council is actively working to build safer, stronger communities. Through initiatives like the Cessnock Community Resilience Network and the Greater Wollombi Valley Community Resilience Network, we’re helping local people, groups, and services to understand risks, share knowledge, and take meaningful action.
Disaster resilience isn’t just about formal plans, it’s about strong, connected communities. When emergencies happen, it’s often neighbours, local groups, and community members who are first to respond. By preparing ahead of time, you not only reduce your own risk, you also become part of a stronger, more resilient Cessnock.
Getting ready doesn’t have to be difficult. Start with small steps, such as:
- Knowing the local risks where you live, work or travel
- Making an emergency plan for your household, workplace or group
- Creating a basic emergency kit with medications, torches, important documents and supplies
- Staying informed through emergency apps, local radio, and updates from emergency service agencies
- Connecting with neighbours, especially those who may need extra support
- Maintaining your property to reduce risks (e.g. clearing gutters, trimming trees, securing outdoor items)
This part of the website provides practical, local information to help you prepare for emergencies and build resilience over time. Follow the links to learn more about:
- What to do before, during and after a disaster
- Local emergency contacts and warning systems
- Evacuation advice, shelter options, and safety planning
- Resources for businesses, farms, and people with disability
- Climate risk, adaptation, and long-term risk reduction
- Volunteering and community support initiatives
While we can’t prevent all disasters, we can reduce their impact and recover faster when we’re prepared, connected, and informed. Whether you’re a long-time resident, a new arrival, a visitor, or part of a local organisation, everyone has a role to play in protecting what matters most. Start your resilience journey today, and help create a safer Cessnock for the future.
See below subpages for specific information.