Earthquake and landslide hazard
Earthquake and landslide hazard in the Cessnock LGA
While earthquakes and landslides may not seem like everyday hazards in our region, they do occur in New South Wales and can have serious consequences for people, homes, roads and infrastructure. Being informed and knowing how to respond can make a big difference to your safety.
Earthquakes in Australia
Australia experiences hundreds of earthquakes each year — most too small to be felt. However, larger quakes do happen, and their impacts can be widespread.
Australia records at least one magnitude 5 earthquake each year. A magnitude 6 earthquake occurs approximately once every ten years. Earthquakes in Australia are unpredictable and can occur anywhere, including inland regions
There is currently no method to predict earthquakes, so it’s vital to know what to do before, during and after one occurs. Earthquakes can also trigger secondary hazards, including landslides, fires from ruptured gas mains, and even tsunamis in coastal areas.
Preparing for an earthquake
Learn what to do in an earthquake, depending on whether you're at home, work or outdoors
What to do during an earthquake
If you're indoors:
- Drop, Cover and Hold: Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on
- Stay away from windows, mirrors, and heavy items that could fall
- Remain inside until the shaking stops and it’s safe to exit
If you’re outside:
- Move away from buildings, streetlights, trees and powerlines
- Stay in an open area until the shaking stops
If you’re driving:
- Pull over in a safe location and stop. Avoid stopping under bridges or overpasses
Landslides in NSW
Landslides involve the movement of soil, rocks, mud or debris down a slope. While major landslides are relatively uncommon in NSW, heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or construction activity can trigger damaging slides, particularly in steep or unstable areas.
In Australia, landslides have:
- Damaged roads, rail lines, buildings and pipelines
- Disrupted rural areas and farms
- Resulted in injuries and loss of life
- In NSW, heavy rainfall is the most common cause of landslides. When the soil becomes saturated and heavy, especially on steep slopes, it can lose grip and slide — often suddenly.
To reduce your landslide risk:
- Avoid building on or modifying steep slopes without professional advice
- Check local history of landslides before purchasing land or developing property
- Be aware of early warning signs like cracks in the ground, leaning trees, or unusual movement of retaining walls
- Keep stormwater drains and gutters clear to reduce soil saturation
For more information on identifying landslide risks, please visit this website.
Are you in a landslide-prone area?
If you’re building, buying, or planning earthworks, contact Cessnock City Council. We can advise whether there is a known landslide risk or historical activity on or near the property.
Case Study: Thredbo Landslide
The 1997 Thredbo landslide disaster tragically claimed 18 lives and reshaped national awareness of landslide risks.
Read the full case study:
Removing the Rubble – Thredbo Landslide
Council's role
Cessnock City Council works with state agencies, emergency services, and planners to identify and manage landslide-prone areas and to help keep our infrastructure safe. We also support local hazard awareness as part of our community resilience efforts.
For assistance with land risk assessments, planning controls or building advice, contact Council’s Planning team.