There's a need for information sharing when disaster strikes

A number of changes have been proposed to the Information Act that could render the government better able to help members of the public during natural disasters and other emergency situations.

Such changes were outlined in an issues paper, titled 'Sharing of Personal Information in the Event of a Disaster Inside or Out of the Northern Territory', which was released on July 31.

There are limitations on the amount and type of personal information that the government is allowed to release following a "local or non-local disaster or emergency situation", reveals the Department of Attorney-General and Justice.

The issues paper states that such limitations need to be relaxed, as more sharing of personal information could save lives and help the government provide aid and rescue to affected individuals and organisations.

Attorney-General John Elferink said that the issues paper "proposes the release of information to secure organisations and agencies in the event that a disaster or emergency occurs in the Northern Territory, interstate or overseas".

He revealed that the Northern Territory's public sector organisations are sitting on a wealth of information about Australians who live in the area, such as their health records, which could prove vital in an emergency.

"Territorians need to be assured that in the event of an emergency or disaster, the relevant agencies and organisations are receiving information that can assist the response and recovery efforts," announced Mr Elferink.

As we all know, damage-causing events can happen at any time. Mr Elferink said it is "imperative we are well prepared and best placed to manage the situation".

One of the ways you can make sure your business is ready in case of an emergency is by taking out a farm insurance policy.

Insurance can help mitigate the risks posed by natural or man-made disaster, allowing you to get back on your feet and on with life in no time.