<p>It is often reiterated that a better understanding of sustainable disaster response and recovery networks (SDRRNs) and governance is key to risk reduction. Nevertheless, the network dynamics and governance of SDRRNs remain largely under-explored. This study explores the process of interorganizational network formation, development, and network governance using longitudinal qualitative and network data, capturing twelve years of evolution in SDRRNs. The study analyses the evolution characteristics of SDRRNs and the factors affecting the network formation and evolution. The results highlight that: (1) SDRRNs are time-dependent, and the linkages of collaboration among organizations remain relatively stable and sustainable; (2) SDRRNs network governance is hybrid and dynamic in nature; (3) establishing a hierarchical network governance structure and continued resource investment are important for maintaining network sustainability; (4) Network administrative organizations are key actors in daily network management and disaster response. The research contributes to sustainable interorganizational network construction and network governance in emergency management.</p>