Hobart, Tasmania – Geoneon, a leader in geospatial technology and climate risk analysis, proudly announces the launch of the 2024 Greater Hobart Bushfire Exposure Index, an updated platform offering expanded insights into bushfire severity and exposure across the Greater Hobart region. This platform builds upon Geoneon’s groundbreaking work from 2022, providing crucial information for communities, local governments, and emergency services as bushfire season approaches.
This project received grant funding from the Australian Government. The 2024 update incorporates new data for the council areas of Clarence, Sorell, and Brighton in addition to the original coverage of Hobart, Kingborough, and Glenorchy. Geoneon utilises advanced deep-learning algorithms and geospatial data to map vegetation to assess the potential exposure of residential buildings and communities to bushfires, offering critical insights for improved preparedness and mitigation strategies.
Key Features of the 2024 Platform:
Key Benefits for Greater Hobart:
Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister commended the expanded platform, stating, "We want to provide communities with the best tools to prepare for future disasters.
"The 2024 Greater Hobart Bushfire Exposure Index is a step forward in safeguarding Tasmanians from bushfires.
“We know that our climate is changing, and Australians can expect to experience more intense and more frequent natural disasters, which is why the Albanese Government is working with all levels of government to better protect our communities."
Brian Mitchell MP, Federal Member for Lyons said “I welcome the expanded coverage to Sorell, Brighton and Clarence in my electorate of this innovative platform to help communities prepare better for bushfire season.
“We know preparation is key to minimizing damage when bushfires do occur, and this will go a long way in helping communities prepare for summer.”
Anna Reynolds, Lord Mayor of Hobart, noted, "The updated platform will play a critical role in our bushfire resilience efforts. It will help our community stay informed and better prepared. Geoneon’s technology aligns perfectly with our city’s proactive approach to bushfire preparedness, as outlined in the recently endorsed Climate Ready Hobart Strategy that will guide how we respond to the climate and biodiversity emergency together as we move towards 2040."
Roxane Bandini-Maeder, CEO at Geoneon, said, "We are committed to equipping communities and authorities with the tools they need to make informed decisions about bushfire risk. This platform update offers more detailed and accurate data than ever before, enabling us to build a safer and more resilient future for Greater Hobart."
This updated platform is part of Geoneon’s broader mission to leverage advanced technology in disaster risk reduction, in alignment with the Australian Government’s efforts to enhance community resilience against climate-related risks.
Geoneon invites community members, local government officials, emergency responders, and the media to explore the platform and use the available resources to prepare for bushfire season in Greater Hobart.
For more information about the platform and to access the 2024 Greater Hobart Bushfire Exposure Index, please visit https://hobart.geoneon.com.