Economic effects of Australia’s wildfires

Key Points :

The economic damage was over $4.4 Billion

Causing major air pollution and habitat destruction

Farming and tourism were effected greatly

8.4 million Ha destroyed

At least 34 people have died

Houses burnt left people fragmented and homeless

Highlights :

The country of Australia is in an economic crisis after the destruction that has taken place after this seasons fires. Not only did forests get effected but many homes were burned, leaving families and the community with nowhere to call home. Air quality and the loss of homes, wildlife, and crops to feed themselves, help is needed. The devastating social impacts of the fires mean that already-fragile consumer confidence will take an added hit.The Morrison government has announced a fire relief fund of $2 billion, although the money will flow over two years. The prime minister, Scott Morrison, and the treasurer, Josh Frydenberg, have weakened their previously rock-solid commitment to returning the budget to surplus.

The policy That needs to happen is having a more set fire relief fund and support system. If the fire crews in the area were more prepared for the random large scale fires that were happening it may have been prevented. Some new adjustments have been made to the plans already. $20m would be made available to lease four extra planes – two long-range fixed-wing DC-10s with 30,000 liters capacity and two medium-range large air tankers with an 11,000 liter capacity.

Recommendations :

Making multi organizational campaigns that spotlight the importance of fire safety and covenant support.

There must be funding happening from third party contributors. This will allow the government to allocate funds to other things in need while the community can help as well. The overall budget of should be increased based on the amount of damage that fires of this size can create.

Just on the local level in the australian community they can do their part in lower the effects of wildfire

Remove combustibles, including firewood, yard waste, barbecue grills, and fuel cans, from your yard. Close all windows, vents, and doors to prevent a draft. Shut off natural gas, propane, or fuel oil supplies. Fill any large vessels—pools, hot tubs, garbage cans, or tubs—with water to slow or discourage fire

Works Cited :

2019-2020 Australian Bushfires. CDP. Feb 17, 2020.

Australia fires: A visual guide to the bushfire crisis. BBC. Jan 31, 2020.