NSW SES boosts tsunami preparedness ahead of World Tsunami Awareness Day

By Newsdesk

October 28 2025
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As World Tsunami Awareness Day approaches on 5 November, the New South Wales State Emergency Service (NSW SES) is ramping up efforts to enhance tsunami preparedness along the east coast. Despite the infrequent occurrence of tsunamis in Australia, the potential impact of such events could be catastrophic, underscoring the importance of awareness and readiness.

NSW SES boosts tsunami preparedness ahead of World Tsunami Awareness Day

NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Daniel Austin emphasised the critical role of preparation, noting, "While the likelihood of a tsunami in NSW is low, it’s not zero. A tsunami could happen when we least expect it and the impacts could be devastating." This sentiment drives the agency's ongoing efforts to prepare for the possibility, ensuring that both the SES and local communities are ready to respond effectively.

The historical record shows over 50 incidents of tsunamis in Australia, though many were minor. However, since 2007, NSW has experienced at least seven marine-threat tsunamis from earthquakes and one from a volcanic source, highlighting the region's vulnerability.

In a recent exercise, more than 70 members from the NSW SES City of Sydney and Canterbury Units participated in a simulation designed to practise response operations following a tsunami warning. This included a specialist incident management team formed at the City of Sydney Unit and field crews deploying to high-risk locations such as The Rocks, Sydney Opera House, and Barangaroo. These teams were tasked with delivering critical evacuation messaging and assessing preparedness.

"Exercises like this are important to ensure members are on the same page and confident in enacting their local response plans. It’s also a great opportunity to engage with communities about tsunami preparedness," Deputy Commissioner Austin said, highlighting the dual focus on internal readiness and community engagement.

In addition to the simulation, NSW SES is organising community engagement events along the east coast leading up to World Tsunami Awareness Day. These events provide a platform for residents to learn about their tsunami risk, safety measures, and preparedness strategies. The events are scheduled as follows:

City of Sydney Unit: Government House, Sunday 2 November, 10am to 4pm
Randwick Unit: Maroubra and Coogee Beach, Sunday 2 November, 7am to 3pm
Manly Unit: Manly Beach, Sunday 2 November, 9:30am to 1:30pm
Waverley-Woollahra Unit: Bondi Pavilion and Lyne Park, Rose Bay, Sunday 2 November, 9am to 3:30pm
Mosman Unit: Balmoral Beach, Sunday 2 November, 7am to 12pm
Ballina Unit: Ballina Marine Rescue Tower, Sunday 2 November, 8am to 10am
City of Newcastle Unit: Nobby’s Beach, Wednesday 5 November, 10am to 2pm
Swansea Unit: Swansea RSL and Swansea Shopping Centre, Wednesday 5 November, 9am to 3pm

Deputy Commissioner Austin stressed the importance of community awareness, particularly for those residing along the coast. "We want everyone to understand the warning signs and know what to do if a tsunami warning is issued," he stated. He urged residents to use the Tsunami Evacuation Area Interactive Map to assess their risk level and to explore safe preparedness, response, and recovery actions on the NSW SES website.

In the event of a marine and immediate foreshore threat, the SES advises the community to move away from beaches and estuaries. For land inundation threats, people should head to higher ground at least ten metres above sea level or move at least one kilometre away from coastal areas. Additionally, boats in harbours or shallow waters should return to shore, while those already at sea should remain offshore in waters at least 25 metres deep until further notice.

Through these initiatives, the NSW SES aims to bolster both organisational readiness and public awareness, ensuring that communities are better equipped to handle the challenges posed by potential tsunamis. For more information on tsunami risk and preparation, residents are encouraged to visit the NSW SES website.

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