About
DisasterWISE reimagines a future where we work together to enable communities to lead on the matters that affect them most.
As Australian communities face increasing challenges from climate-related disasters, the DisasterWISE Communities Network emerges as a beacon of hope and solidarity, connecting people, ways of knowing and stories in pursuit of just and thriving futures.
DisasterWISE exists to enable diverse communities to better connect, learn from each other and support one another to drive real change.
DisasterWISE is about process over product. The network is a dynamic, emergent space – a living eco-system of connections and knowledge sharing. Be a part of the story and help us shape the network’s evolution.
Five Key Elements
At DisasterWISE we believe in the power of people. Being community-led means that we are not led by a single organisation, but by a collective and innovative community-led approach reaching across all facets of the network . Our membership shapes our actions, strategies, and priorities, as we recognize the valuable knowledge, insights and strengths we all bring.
DisasterWISE encourages member participation and engagement at all levels. We seek diverse perspectives and nurture opportunities for all to be involved in decision-making that drives positive, sustainable change. Collaboration and co-creation are key as we build trust-based relationships and leverage collective knowledge to inform local action. We maintain transparency, provide regular feedback, and report on progress, fostering trust and meaningful change.
Aboriginal ways of knowing, being, and doing encompass deep knowledge in the interconnectedness of all things – along with how to heal and care for Country. Colonisation has led to disconnection. DisasterWISE acknowledges First Nations people as holders of deep wisdom and resilience, being the oldest surviving culture on Earth. DisasterWISE will foreground Aboriginal knowledge through deep listening, building relationships, learning and cultural awareness. We will advocate for strong allyship amongst non-indigenous people for more inclusive, vibrant communities. We will actively listen to explore better ways to connect, learn and create change. Join us in demonstrating deep respect for Aboriginal ways and walking together on the path of reconciliation towards a more just society.
Peer-to-peer learning is invaluable for the network as it fosters a culture of respect, collaboration and mutual support. Through peer interactions, members can share their stories and insights creating a dynamic exchange of knowledge and expertise. This form of learning promotes active engagement and participation among members, leading to a deeper understanding. Additionally, peer-to-peer learning builds trust and strengthens relationships within the network, laying the foundation for continued collaboration and collective growth. Overall, peer-to-peer learning enriches the network by harnessing the collective wisdom and diverse perspectives of its members to address challenges, innovate, and drive real change.
Story sharing within a network holds immense power in fostering connection, empathy, and collective understanding. By sharing personal narratives, experiences, and insights, members can create meaningful connections and build trust within the community. Stories have the ability to resonate deeply with others, sparking emotions, and inspiring action. They provide context, illustrate challenges, and offer valuable lessons learned. Moreover, storytelling promotes inclusivity and amplifies diverse voices, ensuring that every member’s perspective is heard and valued. Through the power of storytelling, members across the network can strengthen their bonds, inspire collaboration, and drive positive change within their communities.
Driving transformative change across a network involves inspiring and mobilizing members to challenge existing norms, embrace innovations, and pursue bold initiatives that lead to positive community outcomes. By fostering a culture of collaboration, experimentation, and continuous learning, the network can empower members to envision new possibilities, experiment with innovative approaches, and overcome barriers to change. Transformative change is driven by the collective efforts of individuals within the network who are dedicated to creating lasting impact and shaping a better future for all.
People and Process
This story begins with 12 people gathering online to co-create the national resilient communities learning network We came from varying backgrounds with varying lived experiences across Australia – we are survivors, artists, storytellers, leaders, researchers, innovators, humans and change makers.
We came from varying backgrounds with varying lived experiences across Australia – we are survivors, artists, storytellers, leaders, researchers, innovators, humans and change makers.
Heartfelt thanks to the courageous co-designers that developed the foundations of the DisasterWISE Communities Network; Alison, Kate, Margaret, Steve, Scott, Pete, Sabrina, Ronnie, Matt, Liz and Bridget. Special thanks to Lauren, Inara, Frank, Caroline, Steve, Trevor and Aunty Vickey.