2008 Handbooks

Everybody is at risk from natural hazards, either physically or economically, and as global population grows, so too does the social and economic impact of natural disasters. Recent disasters in Australia have caused damage greater than 1.5 billion dollars and, globally, individual disasters have caused damage greater than 100 billion dollars. These disasters are a significant drain on our economy and cause enormous human suffering. However, some individuals, communities and societies are more at risk than others and experience greater losses following natural hazards. This unit examines the risk posed by natural perils through an understanding of the causes and impacts of the most significant natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes, floods, tropical cyclones and tsunami as well as 'megahazards' like asteroid impacts with the earth. A number of career paths are available for specialists in natural hazards - for example, the emergency services, disaster managers, the insurance industry and hazards research. Students with internet access can take the unit without attending campus, as the practicals, extensive lecture notes and other support materials are available on the web.