MEDIA RELEASE

Report on Bushfire Preparedness Inquiry

Today the Standing Committee on Environment, Climate Change and Biodiversity published out of session the Committee’s report for its Inquiry into the ACT Environment’s Bushfire Preparedness. This is the thirteenth report of the Committee.

This inquiry commenced on 5 December 2023. The Committee received 12 submissions, and held two public hearings on 27 February and 2 April 2024. The Committee heard from expert individual, community groups, the Minister for Environment, Parks and Land Management, and the Minister for Fire and Emergency Services.

The Committee also conducted a site visit on 2 April 2024 at the ACT Parks and Conservation Service’s Stromlo Depot and Bruce Ridge Nature Reserve.

The Committee’s report made 23 recommendations, most of which are aimed at ensuring PCS is conducting as much fuel management and track maintenance as is possible prior to each fire season, and that PCS is adequately staffed and resourced to conduct its operations.

The Committee’s report is available on the Assembly’s webpage at https://www.parliament.act.gov.au/parliamentary-business/in-committees/recent-reports

Under the Assembly’s standing orders, the ACT Government is required to respond to committee reports within four months of tabling.

20 September 2024

STATEMENT ENDS.

Committee Chair, Dr Marisa Paterson MLA, on (02) 6205 1448

Committee Secretary, James Bunce, on (02) 6205 0199 or at LACommitteeECCB@parliament.act.gov.au