Business Community Resilience, Protecting Livelihoods and Safeguarding Services

Local businesses are hubs for community connections, communication and information sharing. In recent years, the Australian business community has demonstrated the integral role they play in connecting communities and harnessing social capital in times of crisis. Meanwhile, business closures and job losses due to the COVID 19 pandemic have had major social and economic impacts on communities the world over, including reduced access to services, disrupted livelihoods and mental health issues.

This session aims to demonstrate the significant role businesses play in the community through all phases of the disaster cycle, and advocate for a more inclusive approach to the notion of community resilience. Presentations will contribute to a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of businesspeople in disaster planning and preparation, and their position as primary stakeholders for emergency services and government agencies.