A critical purpose of the Framework is articulating Australian Government coordination requirements for the near-term preparedness, response, relief and early recovery phases of the Continuum (see Figure 5). During these phases, actions are taken in anticipation of, during or immediately after a crisis to ensure that its effects are minimised and that those affected are given relief and support as quickly as possible.

To support this, the Framework:

• sets out the role of the tiered model for coordination
• designates lead Australian Government ministers and agencies required to coordinate responses to identified hazards
• outlines the roles and responsibilities of Australian Government ministers and senior officials, and describes the mechanisms and capabilities that support effective decision making and coordination
• details the approach to coordinating extreme to catastrophic crises (Tier 4).