It is so satisfying to be working with such great organisations and such genuine and inspiring people. We are all committed to enhancing the resilience of communities across Australia. We are aware of the increasing risks facing us as emergency events become more and more likely and intense. Each summer brings concerns and higher risk of fire, flood, cyclone, heat wave and storm. We live in such a demanding and sometimes brutal environment. And yet, the courage and persistence of people across Australia, never ceases to inspire and impress me. Together we can face anything. We need to continue to build our knowledge and skill, and to develop our endurance and awareness. We are all vulnerable in the environment in which we live. We can however, help one another survive and thrive. I look forward to working with many more communities and organisations, as we address these challenges.