The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) has welcomed the Newman Government’s determination to ensure that police and emergency services in Queensland work closely and respond as effectively as possible to local community needs during disasters.
LGAQ President Margaret de Wit said she was pleased the Keelty Review into Queensland’s Police and Community Services portfolio had come out so strongly in favour of a disaster management system based on ‘local solutions to local issues’.
Councillor de Wit also welcomed the recommendations that district disaster boundaries be aligned with local government boundaries wherever possible.
“The LGAQ is keen for the Government to cement the paramount role of council-led Local Disaster Management Groups and strengthen collaboration among the multitude of actors at the local level.
“Experience has shown that local communities often look to councils first to help them prepare for and respond to disasters.”
She said the LGAQ would seek more clarity from the Government over some of the review’s recommendations.
“We want to make sure there is good collaboration across the various parts of the new structure on aspects of particular interest to local government.
“We want to work closely with the team implementing these reforms so that councils are effectively engaged in efforts to strengthen the resilience of local communities in the face of natural disasters.”
Queensland Premier Campbell Newman said the Government had asked former Australian Federal Police Commissioner Mick Keelty to take a ‘no-holds-barred approach’ to his review to ensure the community was getting the best possible response from emergency services, now and into the future.
“I believe what we will see from the Keelty review is stronger, more efficient and effective emergency services for all Queenslanders.”
