Providing shelter from the storm: helping an emergency rescue organisation prepare for climate change

The challenge

Climate resilience starts with governance. Embedding climate risk into planning and accountability increases operational readiness and long-term compliance. We helped an emergency and rescue service prepare for increasing intensity, frequency and severity of weather events.

Emergency and rescue services witness firsthand the impact of climate change. Our client, which must comply with evolving climate-related obligations under state and national frameworks, turned to us for help. They wanted to know where they stood, what they needed to do, and how they could mitigate against risk. 

The client was satisfied with OCM’s three-phased approach: a series of internal audits, reviews assessing current readiness for climate change, and an adaptation of recommendations and mitigation of risk.  

OCM understood the assignment. This was not simply an audit. It was the first step in ensuring the client was ready to weather whatever climate change may bring its way, so that they are best prepared to protect the community it serves. 

How we helped

Carried out a comprehensive audit across three dimensions: climate compliance, risk integration, and governance oversight. It covered more than 50 documents, 20 stakeholders, and benchmarked the client against all relevant state and federal policies and standards. 

Delivered a comprehensive report identifying key areas for improvement including strategic alignment, policy development, and internal reporting mechanisms. It provided a recommendation and a roadmap to support the client in meeting current and future climate obligations.

Results that matter

The client confidently communicated to relevant authorities and stakeholders it was compliant with climate change requirements. 

The organisation has a comprehensive understanding of what it must do, when and how.  

Climate risk is now part of strategic and operational planning.

OCM advised on executive-level accountability, with a roles and responsibilities matrix for climate oversight.

Climate risk is included in enterprise risk reporting with OCM developing fit-for-purpose metrics and targets. 

Our people

Judy Malpas

Partner | Assurance | NSW

Cathy Blunt

Partner | Assurance | QLD

Are you ready for the next challenge, known or unknown, that might come your way? Talk to us about change readiness, management and resilience.