The release of a Counter Terrorism Risk Management Kit late last year has prepared Queensland Councils to play key roles in managing the consequences of any terrorist acts within their jurisdictions. The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) developed the kit in partnership with the Departments of Premier and Cabinet Emergency Services and the Queensland Police Service.
Appropriate recommendations and measures help Councils identify and deal with terrorism as part of their disaster management arrangements.
President of the LGAQ, Councillor Paul Bell, said that Queenslanders could have peace of mind that their Local Governments have the tools and training to identify security and terrorism related risks to their communities.
“We believe Local Governments need to be on the front foot in this important area of public safety,” he said.“For Councils to have the ability to assess the risks and manage the consequences of such acts on their communities is a key plank of Australia’s counter terrorism preparedness.”
Councillor Bell said the kit gives Councils a framework to assess threats in the following three key areas that had not been included in planning in the event of natural disasters in Queensland:
- critical infrastructure
- mass gatherings – such as in shopping malls and at sporting events
- hazardous material facilities.
A series of workshops were recently held to introduce the kit to Councils and demonstrate how to use it as a practical tool. Participants were also trained in how to update the kit so that it becomes an ongoing means of preparedness. They were shown how to train other staff in use of the kit.
The Queensland Government recognised a need for the kit two years ago. Several international terrorist threats raised awareness of Local Government’s capacity to be part of counter terrorism and infrastructure security.
“The Mayors of the communities affected by terrorism overseas showed great leadership in dealing with overwhelming circumstances,” Councillor Bell said. “Their Councils also demonstrated strong support and impressive preparation.”
The kit is not only relevant in circumstances of terrorism but also in sieges and other like circumstances where people are under extreme personal pressure and take hostages.
For further information contact LGAQ on (07) 3000 2222.
