The Government is pleased to announce the creation of a new role, Special Envoy for Disaster Recovery, which will be held by Senator Tony Sheldon.

Senator Sheldon will work alongside Minister for Emergency Management, Murray Watt, to ensure much-needed support is delivered to communities when natural disasters hit.

A number of natural disasters have impacted parts of Australia in recent years, and we know from experts natural disasters will become more frequent and more severe due to the effects of climate change.

The appointment of Senator Sheldon to the Special Envoy position, as well as the Government’s commitment to establish a new Disaster Ready Fund of up to $200 million a year on mitigation works, is a demonstration of the Albanese Government’s commitment to strengthening emergency management.

Quotes attributable to the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese:

“Creating a Special Envoy for Disaster Recovery illustrates how seriously we are taking natural disasters..

Senator Sheldon is someone who has spent his entire working life helping others, and is a strong contributor in our Senate team.

My Government will always take responsibility and stand with Australians – before, during and after a natural disaster.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Management, Senator Murray Watt:

“I welcome Senator Sheldon to the role and, having worked closely with him in the Senate, I know he will do a terrific job.

We know that disaster recovery can take a long time, but Senator Sheldon's appointment will ensure our government is doing all it can to get support where it's needed, as quickly as possible.

We've seen disaster victims feel abandoned in past years and Senator Sheldon's appointment will help ensure that doesn't happen in future.”

Quotes attributable to Special Envoy for Disaster Recovery, Senator Tony Sheldon:

"I'm very honoured to take on the new role of Special Envoy for Disaster Recovery.

In my own state of New South Wales, I've seen first-hand the trauma created by compounding fires and floods and I will now have the chance to help those affected.

I'm looking forward to strengthening the Albanese Government's team, to ensure Australians get the support they need, in their darkest hour."