Page 1067 - Week 04 - Tuesday, 3 May 2022
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reduction in the fire fuels takes place. If conditions are too wet, too windy or too dry and hot, prescribed burning cannot be carried out. It is also important to consider the clear expert consensus that, while hazard reduction burns are a part of the toolkit, they are having less of an impact on reducing fire risk, especially as climate change makes seasonal conditions more extreme.
The ESA engaged in extensive preparedness and readiness activity in preparation for the 2021-22 bushfire and storm season. The ESA worked hard to increase community awareness through the “Be Emergency Ready” campaign. The campaign utilised a digital-first approach to engage with the Canberra community, as face-to-face engagements were reduced due to COVID-19 limitations.
As a result of the campaign, there were more than 37,000 visits to the Be Emergency Ready page on the ESA website. Additionally, 4,000 emergency survival plans, fact sheets and other emergency preparedness material were downloaded from the ESA website throughout the season. ESA also distributed the emergency survival plan discussion guide in the November 2021 Our Canberra printed newsletter, delivering important preparedness information to over 203,838 households.
The ESA continues to keep the community informed about all hazards through a number of platforms, including social media, radio, television and print media. The ESA’s social media channels have seen over 827,000 engagements since September 2021, and more than 86 alerts and warnings have been issued by the agency.
The government is acutely aware of the threat that natural hazards present to our city. Just reflecting on the last few years alone and the level of severity linked with extreme weather events, I would like to highlight the importance of continuing to make the investments needed to deal with this as our city grows.
To enable the government to target these investments, it is important that we continually seek information and knowledge from our experts. In this regard, I will be looking to the Multi-Hazard Advisory Council for contemporary advice on how to best prepare for and respond to emergencies using a multi-hazard approach, moving forward.
Although the high-risk weather season has officially come to an end, it is important to remember that emergencies can happen anywhere, anytime and without warning. Be emergency ready all year round by preparing a survival plan and kit, and understanding the risks associated with your area. I encourage all Canberrans to learn more about how they can be emergency ready by visiting esa.act.gov.au.
I am consistently impressed with the adaptability of our volunteers and our personnel. Their ability to maintain operational readiness whilst responding to dynamic and unprecedented incidents is a true testament to their collaborative approach, community spirit and dedication.
Once again, thank you to all of our volunteers and staff across government for their unwavering commitment to prioritising the safety of Canberrans and our community. I present the following paper:
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