title: Build back better principles for economic recovery: case study of the Victorian bushfires.
abstract: This paper looks at developing build back better (BBB) principles for economic recovery using the 2009 Victorian bushfires in Australia as a case study. The concept behind BBB-based economic recovery is to rejuvenate the economy in disaster-affected communities along with rebuilding to create resilient sustainable communities. A review of the literature identified several principles that can be applied to economic recovery to build back better. Data were collected in 2010 and 2011 by conducting semi- structured interviews with stakeholders who were directly involved in the Victorian bushfires recovery efforts, along with reports and other documentation. The recovery in Victoria displayed the use of BBB-based initiatives for economic recovery. The successes and shortcomings contributed to the creation of a modified list of BBB principles for economic recovery, including: creating an economic strategy based on thorough data collection; providing effective funding through grants and flexible low-interest loans; establishing business advice and mentoring services; providing incentives for businesses; assisting speedy rebuilding of business buildings; providing subsidised employee training and up-skilling programmes; and promoting local businesses through advertising.
authors: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Auckland, New Zealand. sman121@aucklanduni.ac.nz
authors: Sandeeka
authors: S
authors: Mannakkara
authors: Suzanne
authors: S
authors: Wilkinson
mesh_terms: D057217:Economic Development; D057172:Economic Recession; D005376:Financial Management / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005390:Fires / Q000191:economics*; D006801:Humans; D019982:Organizational Case Studies; D012066:Relief Work / Q000191:economics*; D014739:Victoria