The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) has welcomed planned reform to the Victorian emergency management platform, saying it will set to better align with councils’ existing capacity and expertise.

 

Rob Spence, Chief Executive Officer of the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement, describing it as a ‘once-in-a-generation’ opportunity to modernise the State’s emergency management regime.

 

“Current emergency management roles for municipalities are antiquated and fail to align with the skills, expertise, diversity and limitations of modern councils,” Mr Spence said.

 

“A proposed review of all legislation that allocates emergency management responsibilities to councils has been long-sought by the sector. This outcome acknowledges the need for greater clarity and the opportunities to capitalise on existing municipal strengths and capabilities.

 

“Councils are not emergency response agencies, but can best add value to the complex relief and recovery needs of communities.

 

“Roles should draw on sector strengths and be an escalation of normal business including community engagement, local planning and partnerships, risk mitigation and support to help communities recover quickly.