Released 28/11/2018
Strengthened emergency management arrangements introduced in the Legislative Assembly today, will better position the ACT to plan for and respond to emergencies.
We have a long, hot and dry summer ahead and we are also living in a heightened security threat environment.
In an emergency, protecting the community and keeping Canberrans safe is our top priority.
To support our emergency responders arriving on the ground at an emergency, we are making sure that arrangements best assist those managing the incident at headquarters. Clear and seamless processes help direct support where it is most needed and ensure emergency responders can work quickly to respond to the incident and help protect the community.
The Emergencies Amendment Bill 2018, introduced into the Legislative Assembly today, reflects the need for the ACT to remain well-prepared and to keep pace with a changing threat environment.
Changes include: The ACT’s crisis committee, known as the Security and Emergency Management Senior Officials Group (SEMSOG), will be expanded to include all Directors-Generals and the Under-Treasurer, recognising the whole of government approach needed to manage emergencies.
In addition, the role of SEMSOG to coordinate security matters for the ACT, such as implementing Australia’s Strategy for Protecting Crowded Places, as well as other emergencies, will also be strengthened.
To ensure the ACT is well-prepared, the ACT Government maintains and regularly updates its plans to respond to emergencies such as heatwaves, storms and major public health incidents. These plans will now be recognised as a formal and critical part of the ACT’s preparedness for emergencies.
This includes the Community Communication and Information Plan that outlines how ACT Government provides information to the community during an emergency. This plan was used during the recent Pierces Creek bushfire to keep the community updated about the fire and other safety concerns.
The Bill will also allow an Emergency Controller, appointed by the Chief Minister in response to an emergency, to continue in their role if a State of Emergency is declared following a State of Alert. This change will ensure continuity for this significant leadership role during a time of crisis.
The ACT Government is committed to providing the most effective possible emergency management arrangements with this Bill. We will continue to have the best possible legislation, resources and capabilities to keep the ACT community safe.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases
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