How can emergency planning better support animals, and their owners, in remote communities? In this conference presentation, AMRRIC shares lessons from real disaster responses and practical approaches to planning for companion animals during emergencies.
At the inaugural RSPCA NSW Animals in Emergencies Conference (June 2025), AMRRIC’s Head of Innovation and Strategy, Dr Bonny Cumming, shared insights on companion animal emergency management in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Emergency guidance in Australia typically places responsibility for animals on individual owners, but in remote communities this can be difficult due to geographic isolation, limited veterinary services and the potential for large-scale evacuations during disasters. Drawing on AMRRIC’s experience supporting communities during events such as Cyclone Trevor, the Kimberley floods and Cyclone Jasper, the presentation explores how animal management intersects with human safety, evacuation planning and community wellbeing.
The session highlights lessons learned from these responses and introduces tools and resources developed by AMRRIC to help communities and emergency planners integrate companion animals into disaster preparedness.
AMRRIC thanks RSPCA NSW for the opportunity to contribute to this important national conversation about improving outcomes for animals and communities during emergencies. 🐾
Learn more about the 2025 RSPCA NSW Animals in Emergencies Conference:
Check out AMRRIC’s Emergency Management Hub:
