About the State Emergency Management Committee

Find out about our strategic, advisory role in emergency management​, and how we work.
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The State Emergency Management Committee (SEMC), established under the Emergency Management Act 2005, is a standing committee that provides strategic advice to the Minister for Emergency Services.

The SEMC meets five times a year to:

  • consider strategic issues
  • make recommendations to the Minister
  • provide oversight and direction to the emergency management sector.
Perth city from river with cloudy sky

Our members

Members are appointed by the Minister for Emergency Services.
Aerial shot of flat coast and shallow water

Our advisory groups

The SEMC has subcommittees, reference groups and representatives of relevant organisations to advise us.
Remote small settlement on the coast

District and local committees

These groups assist in establishing and maintaining effective emergency arrangements.


Primary responsibilities

  • Advising the Minister on emergency management and WA’s preparedness to combat emergencies.
  • Guiding and supporting public authorities, industry, business and the community to plan and prepare for efficient emergency management.
  • Providing a forum for community coordination to minimise the effects of emergencies.
  • Developing and coordinating risk management strategies to assess community vulnerability to emergencies.
  • Providing a forum to develop information systems to improve communications during emergencies.
  • Arranging for the preparation of emergency management policies and plans for WA. 

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