Perceptions of institutional and social response to frequent flooding in an Australian rural town

This study of a small rural flood-prone Australian community, explores the diversity of established approaches to emergency management by the community, particularly the roles ascribed to institutions and social capital. Identified dimensions of theoretical and practical approaches in the literature are examined. The tentative findings and interpretation of them suggest a combination of institutional and social capital factors at work through the established stages (prevention, preparation, response and recovery) and overall process of flooding. These reflect both consistency and inconsistency of approach to flooding. A key finding is an attitude of dependency on institutions which is linked to a wider economic context.