Financial commentator Scott Pape, known as the Barefoot Investor, has advised Australians to remain calm amidst growing international calls for citizens to stockpile essential supplies. While some governments have launched campaigns urging preparedness, Pape emphasized a message of being "alert but not alarmed."
Recent weeks have seen the UK government initiate its "Be Ready" campaign, encouraging Britons to have three days' worth of supplies on hand. This initiative is reportedly a response to a range of concerns, including the climate crisis, technological dependence, and threats from hostile states. Similar 72-hour preparedness guidelines are standard in several other countries.
Pape suggested that Australia's government has not issued similar widespread stockpiling directives because its leaders are being cautious with their messaging. He noted that the current level of public fear is exceptionally high, recalling previous crises such as bushfires, the Global Financial Crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Pape, the numerous threats currently highlighted in the news—including cyber attacks, civil unrest, terrorist attacks, wars, and pandemics—could potentially disrupt daily life. He indicated that these are not secret warnings but rather ongoing global issues.
Instead of focusing on widespread panic, Pape recommended that individuals ensure they have basic necessities at home. He shared his own family's approach, which includes having torches and candles for power outages, storing water due to reliance on tank systems, and growing vegetables. While he keeps some cash on hand, he cautions against holding too much due to inflation and the risk of theft.
Official statements from Australia's National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirm that the government has not asked Australians to stockpile food or water. NEMA stated that preparedness advice is generally tailored to local conditions and specific emergency types, such as the severe weather events anticipated during the current high-risk season.
Woolworths did introduce emergency kits on Australia's east coast in October, coinciding with severe weather events in Queensland, including flash flooding. However, the broader governmental push seen in other nations for general emergency stockpiling has not been replicated in Australia.