Assistant Minister for Home Affairs Linda Reynolds today announced the appointment of Robert Cameron OAM as Director-General Emergency Management Australia (EMA) within the Department of Home Affairs.

Assistant Minister Reynolds said that as Director-General, Mr Cameron is responsible for the coordination of Australia's response to crises, including providing both physical and financial support to those impacted by disasters.

"Australia is generally a resilient nation that pulls together in times of adversity but ensuring that the right resources are available to communities dealing with disaster is crucial," Assistant Minister Reynolds said.

"It is here where Emergency Management Australia, with its Director-General at the helm, works in close partnership with the states and territories to assist those on the frontline of responding to emergencies across Australia.

"Alongside its operational responsibilities, EMA leads the Australian Government's policy response to disaster and emergency management, delivering critical programs, policies and services to better support Australians and help Australia maintain its reputation as a world leader in emergency management."

EMA is also home to the Australian Government Crisis Coordination Centre—an all-hazards, 24/7 facility that provides whole-of-government situational awareness to inform national decision-making during a crisis.

Mr Cameron has been Acting Director-General EMA since April 2018, and his appointment acknowledges the experience and capability he brings to the role.

Prior to this role, Mr Cameron held a number of senior emergency management roles across the Australian Government, including within EMA and the Department of Health.

"I welcome Mr Cameron's appointment as we approach what is forecast to be a dry and dangerous fire season."

"I would like to thank Mr Cameron for his ongoing commitment and I look forward to working closely with him across a number of responsibilities."