Journey to recovery

Journey to recovery describes the collaborative approach being taken across Australia to recover from the devastating 2019–20 Black Summer bushfires. While recovery plans are developed at a state or territory level, the scale of the recent Black Summer bushfires was unprecedented, and recovery is beyond the resources of any one jurisdiction. Such an extraordinary event requires an extraordinary response. For the first time, this document describes what the states and territories are doing in response to the bushfires, while also providing a national foundation for future cooperation.

It details the overarching framework that supports all levels of government, communities and individuals in their specific recovery actions. It does not replace the recovery plans of each jurisdiction. Rather, it shows how these plans connect, along with additional Australian Government resources and support, to ensure a cooperative, national approach. It provides certainty to communities and to the states and territories regarding governance and support.

Journey to recovery is informed by consultation with communities and discussions with local, state and territory governments, industry bodies and charities. It outlines what happened leading up to, during and immediately after the Black Summer bushfires. It sets out a clear and structured approach for coordinated action by communities, local governments, state and territory governments and the Australian Government. By working together in this way — alongside the private and not-for-profit sectors — we can ensure those directly affected by the bushfires receive the services and programs they need while empowering communities to rebuild and create a more resilient future.