As natural disasters become more frequent and severe, councils are under growing pressure to protect critical infrastructure while restoring services faster and more transparently. Traditional asset management approaches, often reactive and siloed, are no longer sufficient to meet rising community expectations or the demands of modern disaster recovery.
Presented at the IPWC25 State Conference, Smart Assets, Stronger Communities: Integrating Technology for Disaster-Ready Councils explores how councils can integrate technology into everyday asset management practices to build resilience before disaster strikes, and respond more effectively when it does.
Moving from Reactive to Disaster-Ready
SHEPHERD’s approach demonstrates how RACAS® (Road Asset Condition Assessment System), AI-supported assessments, cloud-based platforms, and real-time data capture can transform disaster preparedness and recovery. These tools enable councils to:
- Capture accurate, GPS-tagged condition data at scale
- Identify damage quickly using AI-assisted defect detection
- Integrate seamlessly with DRFA processes to accelerate submissions
- Maintain a single dataset that supports operations, recovery, and long-term planning
Rather than treating disasters as standalone events, this model embeds readiness into business-as-usual asset management.
Real-Time Data When It Matters Most
Access to real-time, spatially accurate data significantly improves emergency response coordination. During recent flood events, including deployments with Paroo Shire Council and Bulloo Shire Council – RACAS® enabled rapid damage identification, prioritisation of emergent works, and early preparation of funding-ready submissions.
Equally important, councils with established systems and procurement arrangements were able to mobilise immediately, reducing delays during the most critical early stages of recovery
Beyond Recovery: Building Long-Term Resilience
Maintaining current, high-quality asset data delivers benefits well beyond disaster response. Integrated condition data supports:
- More accurate budget forecasting and capital prioritisation
- Alignment with long-term financial planning and service levels
- Reduced financial risk and stronger audit confidence
- Safer, more resilient infrastructure for communities
By turning data into actionable insight, councils can shift from reactive repair to proactive resilience.
The accompanying PowerPoint presentation, Smart Assets, Stronger Communities: Integrating Technology for Disaster-Ready Councils, is available to view or download, showcasing real-world examples, workflows, and case study outcomes
Key Takeaways
Disaster readiness starts before the event
Technology embedded in BAU asset management accelerates recovery.
One dataset, multiple outcomes
Condition data supports operations, DRFA, capital works, and planning.
AI improves speed and safety
In-car, AI-assisted assessments reduce risk and improve efficiency.
Real-time visibility matters
Live data improves emergency coordination and decision-making.
Stronger assets build stronger communities
Resilient infrastructure underpins faster recovery and long-term sustainability.
