Action is needed to manage climate change related disasters

With an annual cycle of bushfires, cyclones and floods coupled with a prosperous and stable economy, Australia features among the world's top 10 for economic damage caused by natural disasters.

Floodwaters are seen at Aplins Weir in Townsville, Friday, February 1, 2019. Source: AAP

As large parts of the country battle fires and floods, experts say it's time to start planning better for future extreme weather events, to reduce the loss of lives and property in years to come.  In Australia, natural disasters are a year-round threat.