Ready for any disaster

New state emergency handbook

A CLUNKY batch of 10 separate guidelines have been consolidated into one allencompassing document to direct Queensland’s response when disaster strikes.

Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford will today unveil the new standards which will guide the responsibilities of all agencies involved in disaster management from May.

He said the streamlined process would eliminate confusion during the scramble to respond quickly and effectively during cyclones or other emergencies.

“The previous guidelines were developed in isolation of each other and focused on the specific functions of individual disaster management groups,” he said.

“This new approach involved contribution from all local, district and state agencies to address the needs of each group and ensure greater interoperability during a largescale event.

“Importantly, the new guideline will be reviewed and updated regularly to maintain best practice and meet the evolving needs of Queensland’s disaster response requirements.”

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Deputy Commissioner Mark Roche said it took almost a year of work across multiple departments and emergency services agencies to complete the new plan.

“Disaster management is a team effort and this guideline ensures all the relevant players are operating from the same book,” he said.

A suite of new resources will be rolled out alongside the document. “A toolkit made up of manuals, reference guides, forms, templates, maps, diagrams and handbooks will be available to use when needed,” Mr Roche said.

“Queensland is the most disaster-prone state in Australia, so it is essential we have the knowledge, tools and resources readily available to effectively respond before, during and after an event.

“This guideline means that whether a bushfire ignites in the southeast or severe flooding takes hold in the Far North, Queensland’s highly trained disaster management agencies will be ready.”