A Financial Buffer for When Disaster Strikes
The fund will form part of the 2026–27 Frankston City Council Budget, with $150,000 allocated each year to support recovery from events such as landslips, bushfires, coastal erosion and severe storms.
Mayor Kris Bolam JP said the move gives Frankston a financial buffer to act swiftly when disaster hits.
“We’ve seen firsthand the impact disasters such as storms, coastal flooding and landslips – like the one nearby at McCrae – have directly on the community and in the recovery effort that follows,” Cr Bolam said.
“This fund is about future-proofing our city and being sufficiently prepared for the unexpected. We feel this is especially important for coastal communities like ours.”
Addressing Climate Change and Community Safety
Councillor Emily Green said the new fund recognises the growing threat posed by climate change.
“Climate change is intensifying the frequency and severity of events like bushfires and coastal erosion,” she said.
“This fund is a responsible and necessary step to ensure we can support our community when it matters most. It gives residents peace of mind knowing Council is thinking ahead and doing all it can to get services and facilities back up and running quickly after an emergency.”
The Emergency Disaster Fund will only be accessed when the Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP) is activated, and only with approval from the CEO or a delegated officer.
Lessons from Recent Storms and Regional Emergencies
Recent storm events have cost Frankston City Council between $50,000 and $100,000 in clean-up and recovery expenses, underscoring the need for a dedicated financial reserve.
Since 2010, Council has partnered with neighbouring municipalities through mutual aid agreements and regularly works with the SES, CFA, and Victoria Police to coordinate emergency management and recovery.
The announcement comes amid broader scrutiny of how local governments manage disaster preparedness. Earlier this year, the McCrae landslide on the Mornington Peninsula exposed significant failures in coordination and communication.
An independent review found South East Water and Mornington Peninsula Shire Council failed to act on known risks, drawing strong criticism for their handling of the incident.
Read the STPL News report: Report Finds South East Water and Mornington Peninsula Shire to Blame for McCrae Landslide.
Supporting Community Recovery and Preparedness
Frankston City Council says the new fund is a practical step towards protecting lives, property, and essential services in the face of increasing climate challenges.
Residents can find out more about emergency preparedness and view the Municipal Emergency Management Plan at:
Emergency services and preparation – Frankston City Council.
