A particular feature of modern, post-industrial societies is their growing awareness of risk and crisis management. This book's main theme is therefore the context, concepts and practice of risk and crisis management in the public sector in Western, notably European, and Asia Pacific countries. Relating to extraordinary phenomena, the term 'risk and crisis management' covers such events and incidents as: natural catastrophes (earthquakes, hurricanes and floods); terrorist attacks (Bali, New York, Madrid); corporate failures (HIH, Enron, WorldCom); threats to human and animal welfare (SARS, Foot and Mouth, BSE); critical incidents (bushfires, rail crashes, aviation accidents, mass shootings); environmental degradation (rain forests, ozone layer, oil spills); and policy failures (UK Poll Tax, Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander Commission, public-private partnerships). The public sector, at both national and sub-national levels, plays a crucial role not only in the management of such extraordinary events as these, but also in anticipating and preparing for the 'unthinkable'. The book links theory and practice, with the specific aim of equipping public managers and those studying public management with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage risk, and effectively deal with crises.