Summary

Australian National Audit Office assessed whole-of-government crisis coordination arrangements between 2020 and 2023, and the readiness of systems and processes to respond to future crises. Auditors also examined the 2023 review of the Australian Government Crisis Management Framework (AGCMF)* undertaken by the Department of the Prime Minister & Cabinet. The Department of the Prime Minister & Cabinet has developed a largely appropriate framework for responding to crises. The revised AGCMF released in September 2024 incorporates lessons from prior crises, provides increased guidance for all-hazards responses, as well as focuses on increased oversight and additional continuous improvement activities. SAI made 5 recommendations aimed at processes to support annual updates of the AGCMF, and the inputs into the development of the annual national exercise program. _________________________________ * The Australian Government Crisis Management Framework is the Australian Government’s basis for preparing for, responding to, and recovering from crisis including pandemics, natural disasters, terrorism, and cyber incidents.