Victorian bushfires - local government role praised
February 09, 2009
The President of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA), Cr Geoff Lake, today praised the efforts of local councils for the role they are playing in the response to the Victorian bushfire disaster.
"Councils play a critical but often unrecognised role in responding to these types of catastrophic events," Cr Lake said.
"In all affected areas, councils are working around the clock supporting emergency services and their local communities.
"The work of councils is only just beginning. Councils will lead the community recovery effort which, given the unprecedented scale of loss and damage in many communities, will last for years," Cr Lake said.
During an emergency local government supports emergency services by providing vital resources and local knowledge of vulnerable communities, property and infrastructure.
Councils are responsible for establishing relief centres for displaced and stressed members of the community and coordinating counselling and other personal support services.
There are more than 25 relief centres currently operating in Victoria.
"The role played by councils in an emergency is not as visible as the firefighters on the frontline, however it is no less important in protecting, safeguarding and rebuilding devastated communities.
Councils from parts of Victoria unaffected by the fires are now providing staff and other resources to councils in the areas most hit by the fires to assist with the huge task ahead.
"I also want to recognise the role being played by councils in other parts of Australia responding to other emergencies at the moment. From the major flooding in north Queensland to bushfires still underway in other states, particularly in New South Wales, councils are performing an invaluable role in assisting affected communities," Cr Lake concluded.
- Contact
- Cr Geoff Lake, ALGA President - 0411 645 281
- Amanda Lynch, Director, Public Affairs - 0419 123 862 / 02 6122 9434
