An independent review of the State’s fire and emergency services has called for more resources, more personnel, and better focused and aligned services.
Following the review, the Government has announced enhanced allocations for the services “to ensure Queensland’s committed front-line officers, staff and volunteers are best positioned to respond to emergency situations”.
Minister for Police and Fire and Emergency Services, Mark Ryan said the Government’s $400 million commitment would mean an increase of almost 500 full-time emergency services staff, with dedicated allocated budgets for each service entity.
“This important investment in community safety will see the establishment of a new Queensland Fire Department, while the Queensland Police Service will have primary responsibility for disaster response and coordination,” Mr Ryan said.
“The Fire Department will have a clear focus on fire prevention, response and control. It will encompass the Fire and Rescue Service and the Rural Fire Service as a separate entity with its own dedicated budget.”
He said the reform would also see the State Emergency Service and volunteer marine rescue services — to be named Marine Rescue Queensland — aligned more closely with, and hosted by, the Queensland Police Service.
“The Government’s response to the independent report will deliver good jobs and better fire and emergency services to support Queensland’s great lifestyle,” Mr Ryan said.
“These additional funds and resources will enhance the delivery of emergency and fire services in the face of the increasing challenges from climate change, and the expected intensification of impacts from emergencies and natural disasters on communities.”
He said overseeing the reforms would be a Reform Implementation Taskforce, led by State Disaster Coordinator, Deputy Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski (pictured).
“The Taskforce will ensure the required changes will be undertaken in a measured and considered way. There will not have any impact on the preparation or response to the upcoming severe weather season,” the Minister said.
“Consistent with the report’s recommendations, the Government has asked the Inspector General Emergency Management to review Queensland’s disaster management arrangements and propose any necessary legislative reforms and updates to the State Disaster Management Plan,” Mr Ryan said.
The 185- page Independent Review of Queensland Fire and Emergency Services can be accessed at this PS News link.
