The LEMA Improvement Program is a State Emergency Management Committee (SEMC) initiative to improve local government emergency management planning in Western Australia. The program is being implemented by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) and the Western Australia Local Government Association (WALGA).
The program was initiated in response to a sector-led review of Local Emergency Management Arrangements (LEMA), which identified the need for greater clarity about local government emergency management responsibilities and improved tools to help local governments meet those responsibilities.
The program has delivered:
- New LEMA templates and supporting guidance
- The Local Government Emergency Management Knowledge Hub
- Proposals for a capability development model and supporting policy reforms.
The program has now moved into an implementation phase, with ongoing opportunities for sector feedback as the new information and tools are tested by local governments.
Project Background
Show moreThe review of LEMA was driven by a recognised need to support a more contemporary approach to local emergency management in Western Australia.
In 2019, WALGA highlighted challenges facing local governments in meeting their LEMA obligations and advocated for alternative approaches to building and supporting emergency management capability. DFES, on behalf of SEMC, worked in partnership with WALGA to consult with key stakeholders, identify issues and investigate options to:
- develop more fit-for-purpose LEMA
- streamline LEMA processes
- encourage currency
- support local governments with limited emergency management resources.
After extensive consultation and testing, a LEMA Improvement Plan was presented to SEMC and subsequently endorsed in August 2023. A more detailed Improvement Program to implement the plan was subsequently approved in December 2023.
Phase 1 of the LEMA Improvement Program was completed in April 2026, and an implementation phase is now underway.
Project Deliverables
Show moreNew LEMA templates and guidance
Following feedback from local governments, a new LEMA template suite has been developed. The suite provides a practical approach aligned with the minimum requirements of the Emergency Management Act 2005 and State EM Policy, with strategic and operational content separated into distinct documents. The new LEMA document suite includes:
- Local Emergency Management Plan template and guidance
- Incident Support Handbook template and guidance
- Emergency Management Workplan template and guidance
- Local Recovery Plan template and guideline (existing Guideline which is currently under review).
Local Government Emergency Management Knowledge Hub
The Local Government Emergency Management Knowledge Hub brings together information about local government emergency management roles, responsibilities and requirements in one online location, with links to legislation, policy and supporting resources. It is regularly updated in response to State EM Framework updates and feedback from the emergency management sector.
Proposed Capability Development Model and Policy Reform
A capability development model has been developed to improve definition of the minimum emergency management requirements for local governments and establish pathways for continual capability improvement.
Later in 2026, DFES will release a Discussion Paper outlining the proposed model and associated amendments to the State EM Framework. The paper will seek stakeholder feedback on the proposed reforms.
Implementation Phase
Show morePhase 1 of the LEMA Improvement Program was completed in April 2026. The program is now focused on supporting implementation of the program outcomes.
SEMC advice on minimum requirements for LEMA
In response to Phase 1 of the LEMA Improvement Program, SEMC has provided advice to clarify the minimum requirements for LEMA and emergency risk management planning arrangements for local governments. The new LEMA guidance and template suite has been developed to align with this advice.
For more information, see the LEMA page on Engage WAEM.
Consultation on new LEMA templates
The new LEMA templates are available on Engage WAEM for local governments to use and provide feedback on until 15 June 2027. Feedback will be used to refine and improve the templates before finalisation.
Use of the new templates is optional. Local governments may continue to use the existing template in the LEMA Guideline or adopt an alternative format. However, local governments should refer to the new guidance documents to ensure their LEMA meets the minimum requirements.
WALGA Implementation Support
WALGA is supporting implementation of the updated LEMA resources through a program of masterclasses, webinars, updated training materials and practical implementation support for local governments. WALGA is also working with Hazard Management Agencies and support organisations to coordinate and prioritise sector support needs.
For more information, visit WALGA’s Emergency Management webpage or contact WALGA at em@walga.asn.au.
Upcoming consultation on LEMA implementation
Later in 2026, DFES will release a Discussion Paper outlining proposed amendments to support implementation of the outcomes from the LEMA Improvement Program, including a new emergency management capability development model for local governments.
Stakeholder feedback will be sought on the proposed amendments. Register your interest via EngageWAEM to be notified when the Discussion Paper is released.
Frequently Asked Questions
Show moreWhat if my local government’s LEMA is due for review now or in 2027?
You should review and update your LEMA to maintain your obligations under the Emergency Management Act 2005 and State EM Policy. It is recommended that you use the new modular LEMA templates. If you use an alternative format, you should refer to the new guidance documents to ensure your LEMA meets the minimum requirements identified by SEMC.
Consult your local District Emergency Management Advisor for help and information about reviewing your LEMA.
What are local government requirements for emergency risk management planning?
Local governments must ensure their LEMA is informed by an assessment of local hazards, risks and vulnerabilities. SEMC has advised that local governments are not required to use the emergency risk management methodology in the Emergency Risk Management Guideline and may adopt a risk assessment approach appropriate to their local circumstances. Further information is available at EngageWAEM.
Program Highlights
Show more2019
SEMC endorsed a sector-led review of Local Emergency Management Arrangements (LEMA) to better understand the challenges local governments face in meeting their obligations and identify opportunities to modernise LEMA requirements.
2021-2023
- Extensive consultation was undertaken with local governments, emergency management stakeholders and sector representatives.
- The LEMA Improvement Plan was endorsed by SEMC in August 2023.
- SEMC approved and funded Phase 1 of the LEMA Improvement Program in December 2023.
2024-2026
- A Local Government LEMA Working Group was established to co-design new templates, guidance and supporting resources.
- Five local governments participated in a pilot program to test and refine the proposed approach.
- DFES launched the Local Government Emergency Management Knowledge Hub.
- Phase 1 of the LEMA Improvement Program was completed in April 2026.
Current
- In May 2026, SEMC approved funding for WALGA to support implementation of the revised templates and guidance through training, webinars, masterclasses and practical implementation support.
- New LEMA templates and guidance have been released for sector consultation, with feedback open until 15 June 2027.
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