Engineers Australia is urging governments and communities to prioritise engineering-led solutions as the country prepares for a summer marked by hotter-than-average temperatures, heightened bushfire danger and increased pressure on critical infrastructure.
Citing the Bureau of Meteorology’s seasonal outlook, which forecasts hotter, drier conditions across several states, Engineers Australia said long-term climate trends and growing urban density are amplifying risks to buildings, transport systems and regional communities.
Engineers Australia Chief Engineer Katherine Richards AM CSC said the upcoming season highlights the importance of embedding engineering expertise into emergency preparedness.
“Australia must leverage its engineering expertise to strengthen community safety and resilience,” Richards said.
“Each summer we’re reminded that we live in one of the most climate-exposed nations in the world — and engineering is our first line of defence.”
She said while frontline firefighting remained essential, prevention depended heavily on engineering-led design.
“While the tireless work of our firefighters remains our crucial reactive response, smart engineering is our proactive prevention — reducing risk long before emergencies unfold,” she said.
Richards said engineering disciplines play distinct roles in lifting community safety during extreme weather.
“As heatwaves intensify and bushfire danger increases, engineers are the people who design the heat-resilient buildings we live and work in, the infrastructure that keeps communities connected during disasters, and the systems that protect lives when conditions turn extreme.”
She added that fire safety engineers, civil and structural engineers, electrical and telecommunications specialists, and water engineers all contribute to ensuring Australian communities are prepared for severe conditions.
“These capabilities already exist, but they must be mobilised, invested in and embedded into long-term planning,” Richards said.
She also emphasised the need to maintain a strong pipeline of engineering talent. “Our engineers are solving the challenges of today and designing for the climate of tomorrow,” she said.
“With the right policy settings, planning frameworks and workforce support, Australia can reduce disaster impacts, strengthen community resilience and ensure we’re better prepared for the summers ahead.”
