Could a more explicit focus on national civil contingency capability be more efficient and effective for Australia and New Zealand?
Defence and civil contingencies refer to a nation's preparedness and response strategies for both military threats and large-scale civilian emergencies, such as natural disasters, major accidents, or security incidents. Australia and New Zealand rely heavily on military assets to support civil emergency responses when local resources are insufficient. However, there is an opportunity to establish a dedicated coast guard-type force (maritime, aviation, land based) to support civil contingencies, similar to the United Kingdom’s model and the United States Coast Guard (USCG). The USCG provides a proven framework for a cost-effective, scalable solution that integrates maritime, aviation, and land-based capabilities while reducing the reliance on expensive military assets.
Current approach to civil contingencies
When a civil emergency arises due to a natural disaster or malicious threat, the immediate response responsibility falls on emergency services. If these resources prove inadequate or are unavailable within the required timeframe, military support may be requested under established protocols, such as Military Aid to the Civil Power (MACP). However, this reliance on military intervention presents several challenges, including the high cost of military-grade assets and the potential for stretched defence resources. The USCG demonstrates how a dedicated force can provide an effective, flexible response without overburdening military resources.
The case for a dedicated civil contingencies force
A dedicated civil contingencies force, modelled on the UK’s approach and incorporating lessons from the USCG, could provide a more structured and cost-effective response to national emergencies. The USCG successfully balances defence, law enforcement, and civil emergency functions while maintaining operational independence. Establishing such a force in Australia and New Zealand would:
Reduce dependence on military assets for non-defence emergencies.
Offer a more financially sustainable alternative using civilian-grade capabilities.
Improve coordination and readiness through a national agency dedicated to civil contingencies.
Provide a workforce trained specifically for disaster response, search and rescue, and crisis management.
Enhance interoperability with allies, particularly through coordinated efforts with the USCG.
Cost-effective capability development
Rather than investing in military-grade assets for civil contingencies, a new national capability could utilise civilian-grade equipment. This would significantly lower costs while still achieving many national interest outcomes. A force that integrates maritime, aviation, and land-based response units could support emergency management agencies more efficiently than military interventions. The success of New Zealand’s Maritime Incident Readiness and Response Team (MIRR) demonstrates the feasibility of a specialised response capability within a national framework. The USCG’s dual role in both defence and civil contingencies also offers a valuable example of how an integrated approach can improve national resilience.
Recommendations
Assess national needs – A clear, needs-based approach should guide investment in civil contingencies to ensure resources are allocated effectively.
Develop a civilian-grade response force – Establishing a new national agency incorporating maritime, aviation, and land-based units would provide a cost-effective and scalable solution.
Learn from international models – The UK’s structured approach and the USCG’s integrated model offer valuable lessons on balancing military and civilian responsibilities.
Ensure legislative and operational alignment – Any new capability should align with existing emergency response frameworks to enhance coordination and effectiveness.
Enhance interoperability with allies – Strengthening collaboration with the USCG and similar agencies would improve regional security and emergency response effectiveness.
Conclusion
Australia and New Zealand face increasing threats from natural disasters and security challenges, necessitating a more robust and cost-effective approach to civil contingencies. A dedicated coast guard-type force, equipped with civilian-grade capabilities, offers a financially sustainable alternative to relying on military assets. By drawing on international best practices, particularly from the USCG and the UK model, and aligning with national emergency response frameworks, this approach could enhance resilience, improve response times, and provide a structured, scalable capability for future crises.
New Zealand could focus 25% of military expenditure on emergency response capabilities that could be deployed domestically and internationally.
This capability could be a better fit for New Zealand and be a cost effective way to contribute internationally to crisis/disasters. It would include civilian grade aviation, maritime and land platforms .