24/1/03
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) and the City of Swan will improve firefighting service delivery in the region, according to Emergency Services Minister Michelle Roberts.
This is the first MOU to be signed since amendments to the Bush Fires Act were passed through State Parliament last year.
Speaking at today's signing of the document, Mrs Roberts said the MOU brought FESA and the City of Swan together with a common goal - the aim of providing value-added emergency service to the local community.
"Co-operation is a vital part of providing an effective emergency service," the Minister said.
"This memorandum of understanding will enable both FESA and the City of Swan to share valuable information, resources and technology during emergency fire incidents.
"This is particularly significant as the community expands and there is an increased risk of bush and structure fires to the local community."
The changes will allow FESA to assume responsibility for the chief bush fire control officers, after an MOU has been signed with local governments. These officers work with councils to manage fires and resources to prevent and fight fires in local government areas.
The memorandum of understanding outlines in greater detail how the two organisations will join forces during fire emergencies.
In accordance with the memorandum of understanding:
- FESA will increase its support to the City of Swan through the management of an agreed business plan;
- a FESA-appointed community fire manager will operate from the City of Swan and undertake the role of chief bush fire control officer during wildfire incidents;
- FESA will provide higher level co-ordination and incident management assistance at wildfires, at the request of the City of Swan; and
- volunteer Bush Fire Brigades will continue to be the first responders for wildfire incidents within the City of Swan - but an 'all agency' response will be adopted in response to large wildfires.
Mrs Roberts said the memorandum of understanding would prove its worth particularly during large-scale bush fire incidents.
"This focus on co-operation and partnership is set to enhance the emergency service we provide to the Swan communities during the long, hot summer months," she said.
Minister's office: 9213 6600
