Bushfires have long been a part of Australian life. But a warming climate means longer heatwaves and less rainfall. These conditions mean there are more days of extreme fire risk, and larger and longer-lasting bushfires.
As bushfires become more frequent and intense, they will affect more Australians more often. People repeatedly exposed to bushfire smoke will be more likely to suffer serious health problems including stroke.
Similarly, droughts and heatwaves are also likely to be more frequent and intense as a result of climate change.
In this submission to the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements, Grattan’s Health Program Director Stephen Duckett and Associates Will Mackey and Anika Stobart identify ways Australia’s health authorities can improve their response systems.