interim north coast regional emergency ......2013/12/01 · the plan describes the arrangements at...

INTERIM

NORTH COAST REGIONAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN

NOVEMBER 2013

An Approved Plan under Section 23 (1) of the State Emergency & Rescue Management Act 1989 (as amended)

North Coast Regional Emergency Management Committee PRINTED COPIES OF THIS PLAN MAY NOT BE THE LATEST VERSION OF THE PLAN

Interim North Coast Regional Emergency Management Plan (EMPlan) – November 2013 Page 2

INTERIM

NORTH COAST REGIONAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN (EMPLAN)

AUTHORITY Pending advice from the NSW State Emergency Management Committee on the content, style and format of Regional EM Plans, this Interim North Coast Regional Emergency Management Plan (EMPLAN) has been prepared

by the North Coast Regional Emergency Management Committee in compliance with Section 23 (1) of the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended).

APRROVED by the North Coast Regional Emergency Management Committee Dated 20st November 2013

North Coast Regional Emergency Management Committee

PRINTED COPIES OF THIS PLAN MAY NOT BE THE LATEST VERSION OF THE PLAN


AMENDMENTS Suggested amendments or additions to the contents of this plan are to be forwarded in writing to:

Regional Emergency Management Officer

North Coast Emergency Management Region

EMAIL: [email protected]

The REOCON may approve minor administrative amendments to this document at any time. Any changes to the planning arrangements or intent of this EMPlan must be approved by the North Coast Regional Emergency Management Committee and endorsed by the REOCON. Amendments made to this plan are summarised in the following table:

CHANGES AND AMENDMENTS DATE

v1 A new document merging the former Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers Displans into a single North Coast District Disaster Plan

November 2012

v2 Converted from District to Region context and renamed EMPlan. Corrected diagrams in Annex H2 and H3.

November 2013

DISTRIBUTION The controlled master copy of this Emergency Management Plan is held by the North Coast Regional Emergency Management Officer. An electronic version of this EMPlan will be supplied to all agencies represented on the North Coast REMC, adjoining REOCONs and REMOs, SEOCON and the State Emergency Operations Centre. The plan, excluding the restricted Annexes, is available for public viewing online at http://www.emergency.nsw.gov.au/publications under Region Plans. It can be downloaded in portable document format (pdf).




AUTHORITY 2 AMENDMENTS 3 DISTRIBUTION 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS 4 PART ONE - INTRODUCTION 8 LEGISLATIVE BASIS 8

BUSHFIRE LEGISLATION 8 FLOOD AND STORM LEGISLATION 8 OTHER ENABLING LEGISLATION 8

PURPOSE 9 OBJECTIVES 9 SCOPE 10 PLANNING ASSUMPTIONS 10 PRINCIPLES 10 THE NORTH COAST OF NSW 11

AREA COVERED BY PLAN 11 REGION BOUNDARIES 12

THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT 12 WATERWAYS 13

THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT 13 ESSENTIAL SERVICES AND COMMUNITY LIFELINES 13 TRANSPORT ROUTES 14 AIRPORTS 14 PORTS AND HARBOURS 14 WATER STORAGES AND DAMS 14

THE ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT 15 TOURISM 15 INDUSTRIES 15

THE HUMAN/SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT 16 POPULATION 16 HEALTH SERVICES 16 EDUCATION 17 CORRECTIONAL CENTRES 17 SOCIAL ISSUES 17

SOURCES OF RISK 18 MAP STANDARDS 19 SECURITY OF INFORMATION 19 REVIEWING AND MAINTAINING THE PLAN 19 TESTING AND EXERCISING THE PLAN 20

CONTENTS




PART TWO - ROLES AND RESPONSIBILIES 21 GENERAL 21 REOCON 23 REMO 23 SITE AND INCIDENT CONTROLLERS 23

EMERGENCY SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREAS COMBAT AGENCIES 24 AGRICULTURAL AND ANIMAL SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA 24 AMBULANCE SERVICE OF NSW 25 ENERGY AND UTILITY SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA 26 ENGINEERING SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA 27 ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA 27 FIRE AND RESCUE NSW 28 HEALTH SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA 29 LOCAL GOVERNMENT / COUNCILS 30 NSW POLICE FORCE 30 NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE 31 NSW STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE 31 PUBLIC INFORMATION SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA 32 ROADS AND MARITIME SERVICES 33 SURF LIFE SAVING NSW 33 SYDNEY PORTS CORPORATION 33 TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA 34 TRANSPORT SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA 34 VOLUNTEER MARINE RESCUE NSW 34 VOLUNTEER RESCUE ASSOCIATION INC 35 WELFARE SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA 35 DEPARTMENT OF PREMIER AND CABINET 36

PART THREE – PREVENTION AND MITIGATION 37 RESPONSIBILITIES AND STRATEGIES 37 PART FOUR – PREPARATION 39 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANNING 39 EMERGENCY RISK MANAGEMENT 39 RISK IDENTIFICATION ANALYSIS EVALUATION AND TREATMENT 39 COMMUNITY VULNERABILITY 39 REGIONAL PLANNING STRUCTURE AND REGION EMPLAN 39

REGIONAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE 39 REGIONAL SUPPORTING PLANS 40 REGIONAL SUBPLANS 41 ORGANISATIONAL PLANS 41

LOCAL LEVEL PLANNING STRUCTURE AND LOCAL EMPLANS 41 LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEES 41 LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANS 41

REGIONAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE (REOC) MANAGEMENT 42 RESOURCE AND CONTACT DIRECTORIES 42




WARNING ARRANGEMENTS 42 STANDARD EMERGENCY WARNING SIGNAL (SEWS) 46 AUTHORITY TO USE SEWS 46 PROCUDEURE FOR THE USE OF SEWS 46 EMERGENCY ALERT 46

COMMUNITY RELATIONS 47 PUBLIC EDUCATION 48 PART FIVE – CONTROL AND COORDINATION 49 REGIONAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CONTROLLER (REOCON) 49 TYPES OF OPERATIONS 49

COMBAT AGENCY MANAGED OPERATIONS 49 OPERATIONS CONTROLLED BY THE REOCON 49

OPERATIONAL CONTROL COORDINATION AND PLANNING RELATIONSHIPS 50 REGIONAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE (REOC) 50 REGION CONTROL AND COORDINATION CENTRES 50 LOCAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE (LEOC) 50 LIAISON ARRANGEMENTS 50 COMMUNICATIONS 51 INFORMATION AND INTELLIGENCE 51 FUNCTIONAL AREA SUPPORT FROM STATE LEVEL 52 FUNCTIONAL AREA SUPPORT TO LOCAL LEVEL OPERATIONS 52 RESCUE OPERATIONS 52 PART SIX – EMERGENCY RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS 54 RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS 54 STAGES OF ACTIVATION 54 RESOURCE DEPLOYMENT 56 RESOURCE ASSEMBLY AREAS 56 DANGER AREA 56 SITE CONTROL 56 EVACUATION ARRANGEMENTS 57

DECISION TO EVACUATE 57 AUTHORITY TO EVACUATE 58 WARNING 59 WITHDRAWAL 59 SHELTER 60 RETURN 60

NEIGHBOURHOOD SAFER PLACES 61 ROAD CLOSURES 61

ROAD CLOSURES ADVICE AND ROAD INFORMATION 61 ASSISTANCE FROM OTHER REGIONS 62 ASSISTANCE TO OTHER REGIONS 62




URBAN SEARCH AND RESCUE RESOURCES (USAR) 63 AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE ASSISTANCE TO THE COMMUNITY 63 LOGISTIC SUPPORT 63 IMPACT ASSESSMENTS 63 EMERGENCY FUNDING 63 STAND DOWN 64 DEBRIEFS AND AFTER ACTION REVIEWS 64 PART SEVEN – RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS 65 NSW STATE RECOVERY PLAN 65 GENERAL 65

LOCAL RECOVERY OPERATIONS 65 REGION RECOVERY OPERATIONS 66 RECOVERY COORDINATORS 66 RECOVERY COMMITTEES 67 LOCAL COMMUNITY CONSULTATION GROUPS 67 RECOVERY ACTION PLAN 68 ENDING FORMAL RECOVERY OPERATIONS 68 EMERGENCY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE 68 PUBLIC APPEALS AND DONATIONS 68 ANNEX A – ABBREVIATIONS 69 ANNEX B – DEFINITIONS 70 ANNEX C – ISO31000:2009 RISK MANAGEMENT MODEL 76 ANNEX D – LGA AREA AND POPULATION DATA 77 ANNEX E – PARTICIPATING AND SUPPORTING ORGANISATIONS 78 ANNEX F1 – SUBPLANS TO THE NORTH COAST REGIONAL EMPLAN 83 ANNEX F2 – SUPPRTING PLANS TO THE NORTH COAST REGIONAL EMPLAN 84 ANNEX F3 – LOCAL EMPLANS 85 ANNEX G – PUBLIC WARNING MESSAGE TEMPLATES 86 ANNEX H1 – CONTROL AND COORDINATION RELATIONSHIPS 88 ANNEX H2 – COMBAT AGENCY MANAGED OPERATION 89 ANNEX H3 – EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CONTROLLED BY EOCON 90 ANNEX I – REGION CONTROL AND COORDINATION CENTRES 91 ANNEX J – COMMONWEALTH AND AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ASSISTANCE 92 ANNEX K – AUTHORITY TO CLOSE ROADS 95 ANNEX L – STATE AND REGIONAL ROADS 98 ANNEX M – CONTACT LIST 99 RESTRICTED ANNEX N – LOCAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE LOCATIONS 100 RESTRICTED ANNEX O – REGIONAL EMEGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE LOCATIONS 101 RESTRICTED ANNEX P – DETAILED CONTACT LIST 102




PART 1 INTRODUCTION

LEGISLATIVE BASIS 101. The Government of New South Wales acknowledges the inevitable nature of emergencies and

the potentially significant social, economic and environmental consequences. NSW has well established and tested emergency management arrangements under the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended).

102. This Interim Emergency Management Plan has been prepared by the North Coast Regional Emergency Management Committee under section 23(1) of State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended). It should be read in conjunction with the NSW State EMPlan and related Sub-Plans and Supporting Plans.

BUSH FIRE LEGISLATION 103. Under the provisions if the Rural Fires Act, 1997, a “bush fire emergency” may be declared and

a person appointed to take charge of fire fighting operations and fire prevention measures by the Commissioner, under the provisions of Section 44 of the Act, as the “Commissioners delegate”.

FLOOD AND STORM LEGISLATION 104. Subject to the requirements and provisions of the State Emergency and Rescue Management

Act, 1989 (as amended), and under the provisions of the State Emergency Service Act, 1989 (as amended), the overall control of operations in response for the emergencies of flood and damage control for storms, including the coordination of evacuation and welfare of affected communities, is vested in the Commissioner of the State Emergency Service.

OTHER ENABLING LEGISLATION 105. Numerous other Acts allocate specific hazard management tasks to agencies including Combat

Agencies and those represented by Functional Areas. 106. The appropriate Emergency Operations Controller is to be prepared to coordinate support

resources if requested by the appointed Combat Agency and Incident Controllers.




PURPOSE 107. This Plan details arrangements for:

1. Undertaking Emergency Risk Management Studies. 2. Identifying prevention and mitigation strategies. 3. Providing support to local level incidents and emergencies. 4. Controlling emergency operations at regional level where control cannot be effected at

the local level. 5. Coordinating regional level support to combat agencies. 6. Controlling emergency operations where the emergency extends across more than one

local government area. 7. Providing assistance to other regions either on a planned basis or as directed by the

SEOCON. 8. Impact assessments and the transition to Recovery.

OBJECTIVES 108. The objectives of this Plan are to:

1. Use the results of ERM Studies to underpin the planning process at the local level. 2. Detail responsibilities for the identification, development and implementation of

prevention and mitigation strategies. 3. Define Agency and Functional Area roles and responsibilities in preparation for,

response to and recovery from emergencies. 4. Set out the control, coordination and liaison arrangements at regional and local level. 5. Detail activation and alerting arrangements for involved agencies. 6. Detail arrangements for the acquisition and coordination of resources. 7. Detail and implement public warning systems. 8. Detail public information arrangements and public education responsibilities. 9. Detail arrangements for reporting before, during and after an operation, including:

a. Information and intelligence flow during an incident or emergency. b. Arrangements for LEOCONs reporting to the REOCON. c. Responsibilities for the preparation of post emergency reports.

10. Detail arrangements for the review, testing, evaluation and maintenance of the Regional and Local EMPlans.




SCOPE 109. The plan describes the arrangements at the regional level to effectively and efficiently

prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies and also provides policy direction for the preparation of Local EMPlans, Local and Regional Sub Plans and Local and Regional Supporting Plans.

PLANNING ASSUMPTIONS

110. Arrangements in this Plan are based on the following assumptions: 1. Local Emergency Risk Management Studies are completed in accordance with

ISO31000:2009. See Annex C for a model of this process. 2. The resources upon which the Plan relies are available when required. 3. That all involved agencies have prepared, tested and maintain the appropriate internal

policies and/or standing operating procedures required to facilitate the arrangements detailed in this Plan.

PRINCIPLES 111. The following principles are applied in this plan and are to be reflected in Local EMPlans:

1. Planning within the region is to be based on the SEMC Emergency Risk Management Process.

2. Responsibility for preparedness, response and recovery rests initially at local level. If local agencies and available local resources cannot cope they are augmented by those

at regional level. Finally, resources and support, coordinated from the State and possibly resources provided from the Commonwealth and other States and Territories, are used.

3. Prevention measures remain the responsibility of authorities / agencies charged by statute with the responsibility.

4. Control / coordination of emergency response and recovery operations are conducted at the lowest effective level.

5. Designated combat agencies may deploy additional resources from their own service from outside the affected area local area or the region if they are needed to conduct Combat Agency operations.

6. During an operation, which is the legal responsibility of a designated Combat Agency, the Regional Emergency Operations Controller is responsible, when so requested by that Combat Agency, to coordinate the provision of support resources through the Emergency Operations Centre. The REOCON is responsive to the requirements of the Controller of the Combat Agency.




7. LEOCONs will conduct Impact Assessments with assistance from the Combat Agency, Emergency Service organisations, Functional Area and local council, and in conjunction with the LEMC, makes a formal recommendation concerning recovery. The LEOCON may establish an EOC to undertake the impact assessment process.

8. Emergency preparedness, response and recovery operations should be conducted with all agencies carrying out their normal functions wherever possible.

THE NORTH COAST OF NSW AREA COVERED BY PLAN

North Coast Emergency Management Region Map (including Lord Howe Island 660km east of Port Macquarie)




REGION BOUNDARIES 112. The area covered by this plan is the North Coast Emergency Management Region as gazetted

by the Minister for Police and Emergency Services which comprises: 1. The Local Government Areas of Ballina, Bellingen, Byron, Coffs Harbour, Gloucester,

Great Lakes, Greater Taree, Kempsey, Kyogle, Lismore, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Nambucca, Tweed, Richmond Valley and Clarence Valley Councils and Lord Howe Island.

2. The State Waters adjacent the coast of Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Great Lakes, Greater Taree, Kempsey, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Nambucca, Richmond Valley and Tweed Councils areas extending to three nautical miles seawards.

113. The fifteen Local Government Areas and Lord Howe Island encompass an area of 42141 square kilometres along the coastline from just north of Newcastle to the Queensland border. See Annex D. It is often described as having two sub regions:

1. The Far North Coast or Northern Rivers. 2. The Mid North Coast. 114. The Emergency Management Region boundaries may vary from other government,

departmental and administrative boundaries. 115. The NSW Emergency Management Regions adjoining the North Coast Region are the New

England (west) and Hunter-Central Coast Regions (south). The Gold Coast, Logan and Warwick Disaster Districts in south-east Queensland are immediately north of the Region.

116. In the North Coast Region, the following Local Government areas have combined for the purpose of emergency management: 1. Bellingen and Coffs Harbour. 2. Great Lakes and Greater Taree.

THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT 117. The North Coast is the most biologically diverse region in NSW and includes a range of

landscape elements including coastal plains, escarpments, rivers, estuaries, lakes and a magnificent natural coastline. It is a highly valued place to live, a significant tourism destination and a natural choice for sea changers, tree changers and retirees. The natural heritage values are reflected in the regions extensive national parks and conservation reserves (many of which have world heritage status) which help to protect and preserve the biodiversity and provide open spaces. The region is subject to natural disasters including flooding, bushfires, acid sulphate soils, coastal inundation and recession. These need to be managed carefully to ensure the regions resources and natural beauty is maintained for future generations. Climate Change reports indicate an increase in risk from these natural disasters.




WATERWAYS

118. The region's main waterways are:

WATERWAY COUNCIL AREA

Tweed River and its tributaries Tweed

Cudgen Creek and Mooball Creek Tweed

Brunswick River and its tributaries Byron

Belongil Creek Byron

Lake Ainsworth Ballina

Wilsons River and its tributaries Byron, Lismore, Richmond Valley

Richmond River and its tributaries Ballina, Richmond Valley, Kyogle

Evans River and Jerusalem Creek Richmond Valley

Clarence River and its tributaries Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Clarence Valley, Kyogle

Lake Arragan and Lake Cakora Clarence Valley

Sandon and Wooli Rivers Clarence Valley

Bellinger River and its tributaries Bellingen

Nambucca River and its tributaries Nambucca

Macleay River and its tributaries Kempsey

Hastings River and its tributaries Port Macquarie-Hastings

Watson Taylor, Queens, Cathie, Innes and Saltwater Lakes Port Macquarie-Hastings

Manning River and its tributaries Greater Taree

Myall, Wang Wauk, Crawford and Wallambah Rivers Great Lakes

The Broadwater and Myall, Smiths and Wallace Lakes Great Lakes

THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT ESSENTIAL SERVICES AND COMMUNITY LIFELINES 119. A number of services across the region have been identified as essential community lifelines

and arrangements exist to afford these facilities special protection. This includes: 1. Defining infrastructure that delivers the critical services to our society. 2. Assets that if unavailable for a period would significantly impact on the community. 3. Various contingency strategies being used to protect or maintain these services. 4. Owners of these community lifelines acting to ensure the continuity of service delivery.




TRANSPORT ROUTES

120. The main transport routes through the region are: 1. The Pacific, Bruxner, Gwydir and Oxley Highways. 2. The Summerland Way, Orara Way, Waterfall Way, Bucketts Way and Lakes Way road

systems. 3. The North Coast Rail System linking Sydney/Newcastle with Brisbane is heavily used by

freight trains and three XPT passenger services operate daily to Sydney. 4. Major north–south air routes between Sydney and Queensland pass over the North

Coast Region and regular passenger air services exist throughout the region. 5. Major coastal and international shipping routes off the coast between Great Lakes and

Tweed Heads.

AIRPORTS

121. Regular commuter services operate from Ballina, Lismore, Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Lord Howe Island, Port Macquarie, Taree and Gold Coast airports. Ballina, Coffs Harbour and Gold Coast Airports are also utilised by large passenger aircraft. Some aircraft using the Gold Coast Airport fly directly to/from international destinations.

PORTS AND HARBOURS

122. Yamba is a designated port controlled by Sydney Ports Corporation. Port Macquarie is the home berth of the ‘Island Trader’ which services Lord Howe Island. Other major harbours for commercial and recreational vessels include Forster/Tuncurry, Coffs Harbour, Yamba/Iluka, Ballina and Tweed Heads.

WATER STORAGES AND DAMS

123. Prescribed Dams and Water Storage infrastructure within the region are:

COUNCIL AREA DAM NAME SERVICES RIVER SYSTEM

Tweed Clarrie Hall Tweed Tweed River

Lismore Rocky Creek Kyogle/Richmond Valley/Lismore/ Ballina/Byron

Wilson River




COUNCIL AREA DAM NAME SERVICES RIVER SYSTEM

Kyogle Toonumbar# Richmond River

Kyogle Petrochilos* Bonalbo Peacock Creek

Ballina Emigrant Creek Ballina Richmond River

Clarence Valley Shannon Creek* Grafton Clarence River

Clarence Valley Nymboida Grafton Clarence River

Coffs Harbour Karangi Dam* Coffs Harbour Orara River

Kempsey Steuart McIntyre Dam* Kempsey Macleay River

Hastings Cowarra Dam* Port Macquarie Cowarra Creek

Greater Taree Bootawa Dam* Taree Manning River

* Off Stream storage #State Water storage

THE ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT 124. The region has developed in response to environmental and economic influences over the

past 150 years. From early timber and agricultural beginnings, the natural environment has been a major influence in attracting retirees, alternative lifestylers and sea/tree changers.

TOURISM 125. Tourism is a major contributor to the regions economy. The North Coast Emergency

Management Region is located within the North Coast Tourist Region of NSW. The region has coastal and hinterland national parks and state forests, major river systems, 700 kilometres of beaches and many major communities. These, especially the coastal areas, attract large numbers of local and international visitors.

INDUSTRIES 126. There are many major and evolving industries across the region. These fall into a number of

categories: 1. Primary Production – avocados, bananas, beef, coffee, cropping, dairy, macadamia and

nuts, seafood/fishing, sugar cane, tea-tree and timber. 2. Service Industries - aged care, building construction, administration ie councils and government departments, education, finance, health, retail industry and tourism.




3. Creative and knowledge industries – artists, writers, film and film production, computer technology, on-line learning and multimedia technologies, e-business, design arts, musicians, performers and theatre practitioners.

4. Evolving industries - boat building, herbs, organic fruits and vegetables, bush foods, aquaculture, mining, alternative energy sources and eco-tourism.

THE HUMAN/SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT POPULATION 127. The North Coast is one of the fastest growing regions in NSW with an estimated population

approaching 600,000. See Annex D. The population is projected to increase by 26% by 2031. This increase is characterised by an ageing population, with those aged 65 and over expected to more than double in the next 25 years. At the same time, those aged 15 years and under will decline to around 14% increasing the median age across the region to 53 years.

128. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples make up approximately 7% (MNC 9% & FNC 5%) of the population, almost 4 times the State average of 2.2%. Approximately 10% of this population are aged 0-10 years; roughly double the NSW average. Based on the 2006 Australian Bureau of Statistics findings, the region has the highest proportion of Aboriginal school aged children than any other region in NSW.

129. While the region has a much less culturally & linguistically diverse (CALD) population than the NSW average, there is an increasing trend for migrants to settle in the region. People from CALD communities represent approximately 13% of the population with large populations of Sikh Indians at Woolgoolga, Sudanese in Coffs Harbour and a cross section from Thailand, the Philippines and Malaysia.

130. The major population centres include Forster/Tuncurry, Taree, Port Macquarie, Kempsey, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Ballina, Lismore, Byron Bay and Tweed Heads. Population distribution across the North Coast LGAs is shown in Annex D.

HEALTH SERVICES 131. Major Hospitals are located at Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Kempsey, Lismore, Port Macquarie,

Taree and Tweed Heads. Other hospitals are located at Ballina, Bulahdelah, Byron Bay, Casino, Dorrigo, Gloucester, Kyogle, Macksville, Maclean, Mullumbimby and Murwillumbah. Smaller health facilities and centres are located at Bonalbo, Coraki, Nimbin and Urbenville.

132. A large number of aged and aged care facilities exist within the region. These range from gated over-55’s independent living developments to low, high and acute care nursing homes with specialised dementia units. It is acknowledged there are just as many aged people living at home, independently or with family.




EDUCATION 133. The region is well serviced by a range of educational institutions across the region including:

1. Public and private Primary and Secondary Schools. 2. The Coffs Harbour Education Campus, a joint Secondary/TAFE /University campus. 3. Nine campuses of the North Coast Institute of TAFE. 4. Three campuses of the Southern Cross University. A number of other Universities have established colleges in the region.

CORRECTIONAL CENTRES 134. A number of Corrective Services facilities exist within the region.

LGA LOCATION FACILITY DESCRIPTION

Clarence Valley

Grafton Grafton Corrections Centre

From mid 2012, this will become a Remand Centre prison for northern NSW with a max of 60 inmates.

Kempsey Aldavilla (West Kempsey)

MNC Corrections Centre

Medium and Minimum security facility for males and females.

Clarence Valley

South Grafton Acmena Juvenile Justice Centre

45 young people on control orders or remanded in custody.

SOCIAL ISSUES 135. Social issues include:

1. Housing affordability and homelessness – compared with regional Australia it is experiencing some of the highest, with up to 65% of households in coastal locations with levels of housing stress. Homelessness rates are almost 3 times the state rate.

2. Income, unemployment & workforce participation - incomes are 66% of the national average. Unemployment is one of the highest in Australia and almost double the national average and workforce participation is among the lowest of any region at 52%. Some communities are acknowledged as the most disadvantaged in the country.

3. Alcohol & substance abuse - rates of substance abuse, reported mental illness and interpersonal violence are substantially higher than the state average.

4. Lack of transport - public transport infrastructure is lacking and there is a high level of transport disadvantage.

These factors create or exacerbate stress for families with children and drive high demand in for family support services.




SOURCES OF RISK 136. Broad information on hazards providing sources that may require a region response is listed

below. Details of the sources of risk are identified in the Emergency Risk Management Studies conducted by the Local Emergency Management Committees.

SUMMARY FROM 2006-2009 LEMC ERM STUDIES

IDENTIFIED SOURCES OF RISK *NC

RANK RISK RATINGS

EXTREME HIGH MODERATE LOW INSIGNIFICANT

Severe Storms (Wind, Rain, Hail & Electrical) 1 8 4 1 Road Transport Accident 2 9 2 1

Flood 3 8 4 Bushfire 4 6 4 2

Disease - Human 5 6 4 1 Tsunami 6 5 6 HazMat 7 4 7

Air Transport Accident 8 2 9 East Coast Low / Cyclone 9 6 4

Disease - Animals 10 6 2 2 Power Supply Failure 11 4 5

Bridge Collapse 12 1 2 5 Explosion 13 3 2 2

Earthquake 14 3 2 1 1 Sewerage Failure 15 3 3 1

Rail Transport Accident 16 3 3 Water Supply Failure 17 3 3

Building Collapse 17 3 3 Storm Surge 19 2 3

Landslip 20 1 2 1 1 Dam Failure 21 4 1

Water Transport Accident 21 4 1 Coastal Erosion 23 3 1

Fire (Commercial/Industrial) 24 4 Marine Oil Spill 25 1 1 1

Fog 26 2 Heatwave 27 1 1

River erosion 27 1 1 Terrorism/Violence 27 1 1

Peat Fire 30 1 1 Industrial Accident 31 1 1

Disease - Plants 32 1 1 Space Debris Re-entry 32 1 1

Levee Failure 34 1 Communications Infrastructure Failure 35 1

Fire (Residential) 35 1 Insect Infestation 37 1

*Sorted by frequency then severity of risk




MAP STANDARDS 137. To ensure uniformity and alleviate problems during response operations, the Regional Emergency Management Committee recommends that EOCs use:

1. The Spatial Information Management System (SIMS) software managed by the Emergency Information Coordination Unit within Land and Property Information, Department of Finance and Services, is used whenever possible during response and recovery operations.

2. 1:25000, 1:100000 or 1:250000 scale topographic maps or digital mapping systems, which are based on the Geocentric Datum of Australia, are used by agencies when necessary for operational purposes.

3. UBD Street Directories when necessary for operational purposes. SECURITY OF INFORMATION 138. Emergency Management Plans, Sub plans and Supporting Plans are public documents.

However, they are not to contain contact details, unless these are essential to the effectiveness of the plan.

139. Contact details and locations of operations centres, evacuation centres or recovery centres are restricted to emergency management agencies and are maintained as restricted Annexes.

REVIEWING AND MAINTAINING THE PLAN 140. The REOCON is responsible for ensuring that this plan is maintained, reviewed, tested, and

evaluated. 141. The plan is to be reviewed by the Regional Emergency Management Committee:

1. After each operation. 2. After each exercise to test the plan. 3. In the event that deficiencies are identified. 4. In the event of Legislative changes. 5. As Agency roles and responsibilities change. 6. After five years if none of the above has occurred.

142. Local EMPlans must be formally reviewed no less frequently than every five years and reviews of relevant aspects are to be carried out following emergencies or changes of legislation.

143. Local and Regional Sub Plans must be formally reviewed no less frequently than every five years and reviews of relevant aspects are to be carried out following emergencies or changes of legislation.

144. Local and Regional Supporting Plans must also be reviewed at least every five years, but may be reviewed more frequently at the direction of the Functional Area Coordinator.




TESTING AND EXERCISING THE PLAN 145. The REOCON is to conduct an exercise at least once every two years to:

1. Ensure all participants are familiar with the contents of the plan. 2. Test specific aspects of the plan. 3. Practise specific procedures in the plan. 4. Familiarise all participants with the Regional Emergency Operations Centre SOPs.




PART 2

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES GENERAL 201. The primary operational roles of each of the Agencies, Functional Areas and other

organisations described in this part of the plan do not preclude the flexibility to adjust roles or responsibilities if circumstances require such action.

202. Unless otherwise stated, the roles of the emergency service organisations detailed in this Part apply equally to the management of incidents and emergencies.

203. The agreed roles and responsibilities of Functional Areas and Supporting Organisations are detailed in their Regional, District or State Supporting Plans.

204. Details of the agencies responsible for coordinating functional areas and details of the participating and supporting organisations providing resources and/or services to each functional area and emergency service agency are shown at Annex E.

205. The organisations detailed in the following matrix have been identified in the NSW State EMPlan, or by agreement at the regional level, as the agencies primarily responsible for controlling operations to combat the hazards listed:

SOURCE OF RISK RESPONSIBLE AGENCY / INDIVIDUAL

Animal, pest and plant disease emergencies

NSW Dept of Primary Industries

Earthquake Appropriate EOCON under EMPlan arrangements

Fires - Rural (Bush and Grass fires within Rural Fire Districts as prescribed in the Rural Fires Act 1997)

Incident Controller or Officer appointed by the Commissioner, Rural Fire Service, or in accordance with a Bush Fire Management Committee Plan of Operations or Mutual Aid Agreement

Fires - Urban (within Fire Districts proclaimed under the provisions of the Fire Brigades Act).

Fire & Rescue NSW Incident Controller, or in accordance with a Bush Fire Management Committee Plan of Operations or Mutual Aid Agreement

Food Industry NSW Food Authority

Flood - Dam Failure NSW State Emergency Service

Flood - Flash NSW State Emergency Service

Flood - Riverine NSW State Emergency Service




SOURCE OF RISK RESPONSIBLE AGENCY / INDIVIDUAL

Hazardous Materials and/or CBR Emergency

On land and Inland Waters - Fire & Rescue NSW - rendering safe land based incidents and emergencies, including those on inland and coastal waterways other than State Waters State Waters - Roads and Maritime Services (Maritime) - Clean up of State Waters operations EPA – clean up operations, scientific support, enforcement and legislative requirements Local Health District Public Health Unit - Provide advice and health warnings in the event of persons being affected by the hazardous material

Infectious disease affecting humans (Pandemic)

Hunter New England, Mid North Coast and Northern NSW Local Health Districts

Law Enforcement NSW Police Force

Major Structure Collapse SEOCON (overall control) Fire & Rescue NSW (provide and control USAR task force)

Marine Oil and/or Chemical Spill Inland Waters - Fire & Rescue NSW State Waters - Roads and Maritime Services (Maritime) Port of Yamba - Sydney Ports Corporation

Search and Rescue NSW Police Force

Significant Infrastructure Failure/Damage

Appropriate EOCON under EMPlan arrangements depending on type of infrastructure affected

Storm NSW State Emergency Service

Terrorist Act NSW Police Force

Tidal Inundation / Coastal Erosion NSW State Emergency Service

Transport Impact Emergency - (Aviation related)

Appropriate EOCON under EMPlan arrangements

Transport Impact Emergency - (Marine related)

Roads and Maritime Services (Maritime) for trading ship related emergencies. Appropriate EOCON under EMPlan arrangements for passenger and commercial vessels

Transport Impact Emergency – (Rail related)


Transport Impact Emergency - (Road related)


Tsunami NSW State Emergency Service

Water Supply Contamination

Appropriate EOCON under EMPlan arrangements Local Health District Public Health Unit - Provide advice and health warnings in the event of persons being affected by the hazardous material

Other emergencies not designated to a Combat Agency eg meteorite strike


http://www.emergency.nsw.gov.au/media/90.pdf�




206. REGIONAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CONTROLLER (REOCON)

1. Establishes, maintains, activates and controls a Regional Emergency Operations Centre.

2. Monitors local level operations. 3. Monitors regional level operations controlled by Combat Agencies. 4. Coordinates regional level support to local level operations or regional level combat

agency operations, as required. 5. Advises and activates appropriate agencies and functional areas when required. 6. Conducts emergency response operations, for which there is no Combat Agency or

where control has been handed over from a Combat Agency, at the regional level. 7. Controls emergency operations, which affect more than one Local Government Area. 8. In consultation with the Combat Agency and the State Emergency Operations

Controller, may assume control of regional level operations from the Combat Agency if the situation can no longer be contained.

9. Ensures impact assessments are conducted by LEOCONs in conjunction with the combat and other agencies to determine the need for a formal recovery operation is required.

10. Ensures that Regional Sub Plans and Supporting Plans, and Local Emergency Management Plans are prepared and maintained.

11. Ensures the SEOCON is kept informed of operational situations. 12. As necessary, requests additional resources from the SEOCON.

207. REGIONAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT OFFICER (REMO)

1. Advises, assists and supports the REOCON and LEOCONs during response operations and the transition to recovery. 2. Assists Chairs of Recovery Committees, Local and Regional Recovery Coordinators and the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services to implement and provide recovery services. 3. Assists the REOCON and LEOCONs with the conduct and reporting of impact assessments. 4. Assists the REOCON and LEOCONs to establish and maintain Emergency Operations Centres. 5. Act as after-hours duty officer for the Regional Emergency Operations Centre.

208. SITE AND INCIDENT CONTROLLERS




1. Establishes a Site Control, notifies all relevant agencies of its location details and requests Liaison Officers from agencies at the site as necessary. 2. Controls the overall situation and coordinates activities and resources of all agencies at the site. 3. Determines the priority of actions of the individuals or agencies concerned at the site. 4. Ensures that perimeters are established and access to the site is controlled. 5. In consultation with Ambulance and Medical authorities, designates a treatment / triage area and Ambulance loading area, if required. 6. Designates equipment / personnel assembly areas, marshalling areas, rest areas, media assembly / briefing area and evacuation assembly areas, as required. 7. Designates a helicopter landing area if required. 8. Arranges through their agency command or control system, or through an Emergency Operations Controller, additional support resources as required. 9. Provides Situation Reports (SITREPS) through their own agency’s command or control system, or directly to the Emergency Operations Controller, if requested. 10. Through agency commanders, coordinates the provision of catering and other support to agency personnel at the site. 11. Determines and plans resource needs (eg lighting, phones, shelter, etc.).

209. AGRICULTURAL AND ANIMAL SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA Coordinating Agency - NSW Dept of Primary Industries.

1. DPI is the designated Combat Agency for animal, pest and plant disease emergencies. This includes implementing procedures in conjunction with State and National authorities for the eradication or control of exotic animal diseases, including:

a. Detection, diagnosis, risk assessment and surveillance of the disease. b. Destruction and disposal of infected animals, plants and products as required. c. Disinfection of contaminated areas, buildings and vehicles. d. Programs for vector control, for example, insect and feral animal control. e. Quarantine controls for the movement of persons, animals and plants. f. Provision of adequate trained staff to ensure quarantine requirements are

observed. 2. Coordinate immediate animal care services and continuing rehabilitation assistance to

primary producers, including: a. Assessment of injured stock. b. Disposal of carcasses. c. Assessment of rural property losses and damage to buildings, fences, crops,

equipment and fodder.




d. Coordination of the supply and distribution of emergency fodder supplies and other materials.

e. Administration of financial assistance to victims. f. Assistance to primary producers suffering emergency induced traumas, in

conjunction with the Department of Community Services. g. With support of Participating and Supporting Organisations, manage the care of

companion pets. 3. With support of Participating and Supporting Organisations, provide animal care

services for wildlife, for domestic animals, and for companion pets of victims evacuated from an area affected by an emergency. 4. Planning for response and recovery operations for agricultural emergencies, and

advising on animal care, veterinary public health, and plant disease control measures. 5. In recovery from an emergency, the A&ASFA is responsible for recovery assistance to

primary producers including: a. Coordinating the provision of animal welfare services and rehabilitation

assistance to primary producers e.g. veterinary advice, distribution of donated fodder.

b. Coordinating activities to assist farmers return to normal business operations through the provision of technical assistance and extension services to primary producers.

c. Coordinating the provision of animal care services for wildlife, domestic animals and companion pets of evacuated victims.

d. Collating and reporting on damage resulting from the emergency that will assist with decisions on financial assistance and recovery.

e. Assisting affected primary producers to access any financial assistance available through the NSW Disaster Relief Scheme administered by the Rural Assistance Authority.

f. Co-ordinating disposal of animal carcasses where there is a public health risk. g. Co-ordinating assessments of injured animals. h. Providing reports as required and maintaining liaison with any designated

recovery authority. 6. Provide support to the recovery operation including participation in Recovery

Committees. 7. Provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre when requested

by the Regional Emergency Operations Controller. 210. AMBULANCE SERVICE OF NSW

Controller – Deputy Director, Operations

1. Provide pre-hospital care and transport for the sick and injured.




2. Establish command and control infrastructure utilising ICS principles. 3. Provide and/or assume responsibility for transport of Health Service teams and their




equipment to the sites of incidents or emergencies, receiving hospitals or emergency medical facilities when so requested by the Health Services Functional Area Coordinator.

4. Provide coordinated communications for all health systems involved in emergency responses.

5. Provide specialist Special Casualty Access Team (SCAT), Special Operations Team (SOT) and Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) paramedics as required.

6. Coordinate fixed and rotary wing pre-hospital and aero-medical retrieval services. 7. Provide support to the recovery operation including participation in Recovery

Committees. 8. Provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre when requested

by the Regional Emergency Operations Controller. 211. ENERGY AND UTILITY SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA

Coordinator - Manager, Energy Branch, Industry & Investment NSW

1. The Energy and Utility Services Functional Area Coordinator (EUSFAC) is responsible for the prevention and preparation for, and response to emergencies and incidents where a significant and coordinated response is required. The strategic and operational responsibilities include: a. Coordinating support from the participating organisations to the Combat

Agencies, other Functional Areas, or organisations involved in an emergency or incident as requested by REOCON. b. Coordinating advice to the REOCON from the participating organisations as

required. c. In conjunction with participating organisations and the Engineering Services

Functional Area, coordinating a supply disruption to water and sewerage service.

d. Provide support to recovery operations including participation in Recovery Committees.

2. Provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre when requested by the Regional Emergency Operations Controller.

NOTE: As a matter or normal business the participating organisations manage the restoration of supply following an interruption of those services.




212. ENGINEERING SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA Coordinating Agency - NSW Public Works

1. Coordinate engineering resources for emergency response operations in the region. 2. Provide Engineering Services support to combat agencies and other functional areas or

organisations involved in emergencies. 3. Coordinate the supply of goods and services in response to an emergency. 4. Coordinate engineering resources for emergency recovery operations including:

a. Establishing recovery centre facilities as requested by the State Emergency Recovery Controller, including property procurement, lease management and fit-out.

b. Coordinating temporary repairs to public buildings and infrastructure. c. Recommending priorities for reconstruction/recovery of public buildings and

infrastructure. d. Coordinating, monitoring and reporting on the repair, reconstruction and

relocation of public buildings and infrastructure. e. Coordinating the maintenance of tarpaulins installed as part of emergency

repairs coordinated by SES. 5. Coordinate the clean up assistance program with local government and the Welfare

Services Functional Area. 6. Provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre when requested

by the Regional Emergency Operations Controller. NOTE: Includes: clearance and re-establishment of roads and bridges; structural assessments, demolition and

shoring up of buildings; removal of debris, construction of emergency levees to control flooding; maintenance of essential services to facilities; re-establishment of water and sewerage services and other related matters and tasks as requested by Combat Agencies or other Agencies. DSTA also provides through The Office of Fair Trading, information to consumers, tenants and traders.

213. ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA

Coordinating Agency – Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

1. Coordinate the protection of the environment during emergency response and recovery operations.

2. Coordinate scientific support for the on scene Controller during operations to combat the pollution of the sea and inland waters within New South Wales.

3. Advise and coordinate scientific support to the New South Wales Fire Brigades during land based hazardous materials emergency response operations.

4. Advise the Combat Agency, and other Functional Areas or Organisations involved in the emergency, on environmentally sound and legal practices for the disposal of wastes or contaminated materials resulting from an emergency.




5. Once the material has been rendered safe, direct and coordinate cleanup of hazardous materials which pose a threat to the environment.

6. Conduct post response operations investigations following incidents or emergencies involving hazardous materials, as appropriate.

7. Conduct assessment and provide advice, in consultation with the Health Services Functional Area, on mitigation and recovery from ongoing environmental impacts, particularly those that may have an adverse impact on public health or amenity.

8. Coordinate environmental cleanup, in consultation with local government, and advise on environmentally sound and legal practices for waste disposal.

9. Direct or coordinate, in consultation with the Engineering and Transport Services Functional Areas, disposal of hazardous materials that pose a threat to the environment.

10. Consider the impact of and, where necessary, amendment to administrative requirements, and consider waiving relevant levies to facilitate the timely and safe disposal of waste.

11. Protect and coordinate restoration of natural and cultural heritage sites. 12. Provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre when requested

by the Regional Emergency Operations Controller. 214. FIRE AND RESCUE NSW Controller – Area Commander, Region North

1. In relation to Fire Districts, prescribed in the New South Wales Fire Brigades Act, 1989 (as amended), is the designated Combat Agency for taking all practicable measures for preventing and extinguishing fires and protecting and saving life and property in case of fire in any fire district.

2. Is the designated Combat Agency for land based hazardous materials incidents and emergencies within New South Wales, specifically for taking all practicable measures: a. For protecting and saving life and property endangered by hazardous material

incidents. b. For confining or ending such an incident. c. For rendering the site of such an incident safe.

3. Provide fire control services by: a. Dealing with outbreaks of fire and the rescue of persons in fire endangered

areas. b. Taking such measures as may be practicable to prevent the outbreak of fires. c. On land, dealing with the escape of hazardous materials or a situation which

involves the imminent danger of such an escape. 4. As determined by the State Rescue Board, provide accredited "rescue units".




5. Assist in any other response or recovery operations for which the Fire Brigades' training and equipment is suitable, for example, the provision of emergency water supplies and pumping equipment.

6. Provide support to the recovery operation including participation in Recovery Committees.


215. HEALTH SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA

Coordinating Agency – NSW Ministry of Health (Local Health Districts)

1. Coordinate and control the mobilisation of all health responses to emergencies. This includes medical, mental and public health and health communication services, and involves:

a. The mobilisation of health resources to the emergency site or sites and the initiation of prioritised patient management.

b. The provision of coordinated hospital and medical response to emergencies. c. The provision of mental health services to victims, emergency workers, and the

communities affected by emergencies. d. The provision of public health services to prevent, prepare for, respond to and

recover from emergencies. e. A coordinated health communications response for prevention, preparation,

emergency response and subsequent recovery from the impacts. 2. New South Wales Health is the Combat Agency for all Health Emergencies within NSW.

This particularly applies to human infectious disease emergencies from whatever cause. Six major contributing health service components constitute the whole of health response incorporating all-hazards approach. They are: a. Medical Services. b. Ambulance Services. c. Mental Health Services. d. Public Health Services. e. Health Communications. f. HealthShare Support Services. 3. Provide support to the recovery operation including participation in Recovery

Committees where required. 4. Provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre when requested

by the Regional Emergency Operations Controller.




216. LOCAL GOVERNMENT / COUNCILS

Coordinator – General Managers 1. At the request of the relevant Combat Agency/Emergency Service Controller, REOCON

or LEOCONs: a. Provide personnel, plant, equipment and material resources, as available and

as required, to assist during incident and emergency response and recovery. b. Provides expertise and support, as requested, to the emergency services,

combat agencies and functional areas. c. Provides GIS mapping support to Emergency Operations Centres.

2. Chair and/or participate in Recovery Committees as required. 3. At the request of the REOCON, provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency

Operations Centre. 217. NSW POLICE FORCE Controller – Northern Region Commander

1. Is the agency responsible for law enforcement. 2. Is the agency responsible for search and rescue. 3. As necessary, control and coordinate the evacuation of victims from the area affected

by the emergency in conjunction with the Combat Agency. 4. Is the Combat Agency for terrorist acts. 5. Maintain law and order, protect life and property, and provide assistance and support

to a Combat Agency, Functional Areas, and other Organisations as required. This may include: a. Reconnaissance of the area affected by the emergency. b. Traffic control, and crowd control. c. Access and egress route security and control. d. Identifying the deceased and injured, and notifying next of kin. e. Establishing temporary mortuary facilities. f. Maintaining the security of property. g. Statutory investigative requirements. h. Operation of a public enquiry centre capable of providing general information

on incidents and emergencies to members of the public. 6. Respond accredited "rescue units" to general and specialist rescue incidents, and

control and coordinate rescue operations. 7. As determined by the State Rescue Board, provide accredited "rescue units".




8. Manage Disaster Victim Registration. 9. Provide support to the recovery operation including participation in Recovery

Committees where required. 10. Provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre when requested

by the Regional Emergency Operations Controller. NOTES:

1. The senior member of the NSW Police Force present at the scene of a rescue operation is responsible for coordinating and determining the priorities of action of the persons engaged in the rescue operation. This applies whether those persons are members of a permanent or volunteer agency except when control is vested by law in another agency (such as when the person or property is endangered by an actual fire at which a member of the Fire Brigade is in charge of the fire ground, or when the operation results from an emergency which is subject to the control of another person or Combat Agency). This applies despite anything to the contrary in any other Act.

2. Some members of the NSW Police are appointed under the provisions of the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended), as Emergency Operations Controllers. Roles and responsibilities of Emergency Operations Controllers are detailed earlier in this plan.

218. NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE

Controller – Region North Manager 1. In relation to Rural Fire Regions, prescribed in the Rural Fires Act, 1997 (as amended),

is the designated Combat Agency for fire incidents and emergencies. 2. Provide fire control services by: a. Dealing with outbreaks of bush fire and the rescue of persons in bush fire

endangered areas. b. Taking such measures as may be practicable to prevent the outbreak of bush

fires. 3. Assist in any other response or recovery operations for which the Rural Fire Services'

training and equipment is suitable, for example, the provision of emergency water supplies and pumping equipment.

4. Provide support to the recovery operation including participation in Recovery Committees where required.


219. NSW STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE

Controllers – Richmond Tweed & Clarence Nambucca & Mid North Coast Regions

1. Is the designated Combat Agency for dealing with floods, and to coordinate the rescue, evacuation and welfare of affected communities (see Note 1 below). This includes planning for and responding to Tsunami, particularly for the warning and evacuation (see Note 2 below).




2. Is the designated Combat Agency for damage control for storms and to coordinate the evacuation and welfare of affected communities (See Note 1 below). This includes damage control for coastal erosion and inundation from storm activity, specifically the protection of life and the coordination of the protection of readily moveable household goods and commercial stock and equipment (see Note 3 below).

3. As determined by the State Rescue Board, provide accredited "rescue units". 4. In conjunction with the Ambulance Service, provide Community First Responder Units. 5. On request, assist the NSW Police, NSW Fire Brigades, Rural Fire Service or Ambulance

Service in dealing with incidents or emergencies. 6. Provide support to the recovery operation including participation in Recovery

Committees, where required. 7. Provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre when requested

by the Regional Emergency Operations Controller. NOTES: 1. Responsibility for evacuees related to flood and storm emergencies is to be handed over to the Welfare Services as soon as possible. 2. The potential for an extremely high scale of impact of a single Tsunami episode means that in some circumstances (as agreed at the time between the SES Commissioner and SEOCON) control of the rescue and recovery will pass to SEOCON. (See NSW Tsunami Emergency Management Sub-Plan).

3. Planning for and construction of physical mitigation works required for the protection of coastal property during storm events is the responsibility of local government councils as per section 55B (1) and 55C (b) of the Coastal Protection Act 1979 (as amended).

220. PUBLIC INFORMATION SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA (Established at State Level only)

Coordinator - Public Information Coordinator, NSW Police Media Unit

1. Assist the effective conduct of emergency response and recovery operations by co-ordinating the release of official and current information to the media and the public about the emergency, including measures being undertaken or planned. This requires: a. Establishing a Media Information Centre, arranging media conferences on

behalf of the State Emergency Operations Controller and State Emergency Recovery Controller and, when appropriate, arranging access by journalists to the area affected by the emergency.

b. Preparing media releases on behalf of the State Emergency Operations Controller and State Emergency Recovery Controller.

c. Establishing a Joint Media Information Centre (JMIC) for the dissemination of information to the public, but excluding inquiries regarding victims.

d. Preparing and issuing official messages to the public for broadcast by the media (which may be preceded by the Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS).

2. Provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre when requested.

http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/about_us�

http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/about_us�

http://www.bushfire.nsw.gov.au/index.cfm�

http://www.bushfire.nsw.gov.au/index.cfm�




221. ROADS AND MARITIME SERVICES (Maritime) Controller / Coordinator – Manager of Operations

1. Is the designated Combat Agency for Marine Oil or Chemical Spills from ships and

shipping incidents that could lead to an oil or chemical spill in State Waters. The agency takes all practicable measures for:

a. Confining or ending such an incident. b. Rendering the site of such an incident safe. c. Site cleanup operations. 2. Under the control of the relevant Combat Agency or Emergency Operations Controller,

may assist in response or recovery operations for which the agency’s training and equipment is suitable and available.


222. SURF LIFE SAVING NSW Coordinator – Directors of Lifesaving

1. Under the control of the relevant Combat Agency or REOCON, assists in any response operation for which the organisation’s training and equipment is suitable.

2. Provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre when requested. 223. SYDNEY PORTS CORPORATION

Controller / Coordinator – Yamba Harbour Master

1. Is the designated Combat Agency for Marine Oil or Chemical Spills from ships and shipping incidents that could lead to an oil or chemical spill in the Port of Yamba. The agency takes all practicable measures for:

a. Confining or ending such an incident. b. Rendering the site of such an incident safe. c. Site cleanup operations. 2. Under the control of the relevant Combat Agency or Emergency Operations Controller,

may assist in response or recovery operations for which the agency’s training and equipment is suitable and available.





224. TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA (Established at State Level only) Coordinating Agency – NSW Telecommunications Authority

1. Provide communications support to Combat Agencies, Functional Areas and other Organisations involved in the incident/emergency.

2. Coordinate, in conjunction with the Telecommunication Service Providers including licensed carriers, the establishment of communication services either temporarily or permanently as required.

3. Coordinate the supply of advice to the REOC/REOCON from telecommunications service providers including Carriers (under the Telecommunications Act 1997) in accordance with communications supply continuity plans.

4. Provide support to the recovery operation including participation in Recovery Committees.

Note: This functional area does not affect the management of normal restoration and management work carried out by telecommunications service providers including licensed carriers.

225. TRANSPORT SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA

Coordinating Agency – Transport for NSW

1. Coordinate the provision of transport support as required by a Combat Agency and other Functional Areas, whilst maintaining as far as practicable, the normal operations and activities of public and commercial transport services. Tasks for providing transport to other agencies might include: a. Movement of emergency equipment and personnel. b. Movement of emergency supplies and goods, including water, fuel and food. c. Evacuation of people and animals. d. Assistance for medical transport.

2. When requested, maintain and operate a road condition / closure advisory service to a Combat Agency, Functional Areas and members of the public.

3. Provide support to the recovery operation including participation in Recovery Committees where required.


226. VOLUNTEER MARINE RESCUE NSW

Coordinator – Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast Region Controllers 1. As determined by the State Rescue Board, provide accredited marine “rescue units”

including Marine Radio Bases and Marine Search and Coordination Centres.




2. Under the control of the relevant Combat Agency or Emergency Operations Controller, assist in any other response or recovery operations for which MRNSWs training and equipment is suitable.


227. VOLUNTEER RESCUE ASSOCIATION INC

Controllers – Regional Coordinators 1. As determined by the State Rescue Board, provide accredited “rescue units”. 2. Assist, at their request, the relevant Combat Agency and members of the NSW Police, Fire and Rescue NSW, Rural Fire Service, Ambulance Service or State Emergency Service in dealing with an emergency. 3. Provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre when requested by the Regional Emergency Operations Controller.

228. WELFARE SERVICES FUNCTIONAL AREA

Coordinating Agency – Disaster Welfare Services, Ministry of Police and Emergency Services. (Service delivery at district level managed by Dept of Family and Community Services) 1. During emergency operations provide welfare services to people affected by disaster

that require a significant coordinated response. This may include: a. Establishing evacuation centres to manage the provision of services to meet the

immediate needs of disaster affected people. b. Providing immediate financial assistance to disaster affected people who are

without or who cannot access the financial resources to assist themselves to meet their immediate needs of food, clothing and shelter.

c. Providing emergency accommodation (through commercial accommodation providers) services to disaster affected people and to disaster welfare services (ADRA).

d. Providing emergency refreshments, meals and food hampers to disaster affected people (The Salvation Army).

e. Providing clothing, blankets and personal items to disaster affected people. f. Providing personal support to disaster affected people (Red Cross). g. Administering financial assistance to eligible disaster affected people as a

contribution towards essential household items and structural repairs. h. Coordinating personal support outreach activities to households providing

information about recovery services. i. Operating the 1800 Disaster Welfare Assistance Line for welfare assistance.




j. Representing the Welfare Services functional area on recovery committees. k. Providing welfare services liaison officers to emergency operations centres or

Combat Agency operations centres as requested. 2. The Welfare Services Functional Area arrangements are outlined in the NSW

Welfare Services Functional Area Supporting Plan.

229. DEPARTMENT OF PREMIER AND CABINET Coordinator - Senior Regional Coordinator Coffs Harbour 1. Participate in response and recovery operations. 2. Coordinate access to those government agencies and NGO’s not part of the Regional Emergency Management Committee when requested by the REOCON. 3. Facilitate advice to the Premier on strategic issues associated with recovery operations

and recovery funding and relief. 4. Participate in Recovery Committees when requested by the REOCON. 5. Chair Recovery Committees when requested by SERCON.




PART 3

PREVENTION AND MITIGATION RESPONSIBILITIES AND STRATEGIES 301. Local Emergency Management Committees are responsible, using an emergency risk

management process, to identify prevention or mitigation options, to refer these options or recommendations to the appropriate agency, and to monitor any outcomes. The Regional Emergency Management Committee will coordinate support or information, or refer options to higher levels of agencies or the State Emergency Management Committee.

302. Responsibility for the development and implementation of prevention and mitigation

strategies rest with the agencies, organisations and/or committees detailed below and is not subject to EMPlan arrangements.

303. To facilitate coordination of prevention and mitigation measures, the agencies, organisations

and/or committees with responsibilities have provided details of the strategies they implement within the region, which are listed below:

SOURCES OF RISK AGENCY / COMMITTEE

RESPONSIBLE MITIGATION /

PREVENTION STRATEGIES ANIMAL, PEST AND PLANT DISEASES

NSW Dept of Primary Industries • Community education and awareness of biosecurity risks

• Training of staff, industry and other stakeholders in detection of biosecurity issues

• Industry engagement and promotion of biosecurity risk planning and management,

• Cross border surveillance, inspection and treatment of livestock for cattle tick.

BUSH, GRASS OR RURAL FIRES

Local Government Councils Bush Fire Management Committees Fire Agencies - Rural Fire Service, Fire & Rescue NSW, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Forests NSW

• Require landowners to clear firebreaks & remove fire hazards

• Regulate burning off • Regulate property development & building

construction through LEPs & DCPs • Coordinate bush fire fuel management

strategies • Implement bush fire fuel management

programs




SOURCES OF RISK

AGENCY / COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

MITIGATION / PREVENTION STRATEGIES

CONTAMINATION OF WATER SUPPLY / WATERWAYS

Local Government Councils, Rous Water, Mid Coast Water Local Health District Public Health Units, EPA

• Monitor water supply at water treatment plants

• Erect warning signs at sites of contaminated water. eg lagoons

• Surveillance of waterways through testing of water samples

EARTHQUAKE

Local Government Councils • Regulate property development & building construction through LEPs & DCPs

EXOTIC ANIMAL AND PLANT DISEASE

NSW Dept of Primary Industries • Surveillance by NSW DPI, especially through Australian Quarantine Inspection Service

• Training of NSW DPI staff in detection of diseases

FLOOD - RIVERINE

Local Government Councils Office of Environment & Heritage

• Regulate property development & building construction through LEPs & DCPs

• Development & maintenance of flood

mitigation works • Preparation of floodplain management plans • Preparation of mitigation schemes and

floodplain management plans FLOOD - DAM FAILURE

Dam Owner (ie Water Supply Authority or relevant Local Council).

• Upgrading safety standards • Advising NSWSES re the need to develop dam

failure Plans HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ACCIDENTS

EPA Workcover Authority Local Councils

• Regulate the transport of dangerous goods • Assist EPA licensed industries with the

development of safe handling and response procedures

• Regulate the production & storage of dangerous goods

• Assists industries that don’t require an EPA

licence with the development of safe handling and response procedures

PANDEMIC INFLUENZA AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES AFFECTING HUMANS

Northern NSW and Mid North Coast Local Health Districts

• Conducts an annual winter illness campaign • Maintains a stockpile of medications and PPE • Monitors levels of illnesses, including

influenza • Monitors new viruses with pandemic potential • Encourages businesses, NGOs and LG to

develop business continuity plans




PART 4 PREPARATION

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANNING EMERGENCY RISK MANAGEMENT 401. The State Emergency Management Committee requires Local Emergency Management

Committees to conduct Emergency Risk Management studies and reviews that identify, analyse, evaluate and treat community risks. The outputs and outcomes of this process are to form the basis for all emergency management plans developed, reviewed and updated by Local Emergency Management Committees.

RISK IDENTIFICATION, ANALYSIS, EVALUATION AND TREATMENT 402. Only those risks that may require a significant and coordinated multi agency response are

processed by LEMCs. The risks satisfying the criteria are to be detailed in Local EMPlans. COMMUNITY VULNERABILITY 403. The Emergency Risk Management Process is to identify those groups within the community

likely to require special attention in relation to the impact of a source of risk. These groups may include, but not limited to, Aged Care Facilities and Nursing Homes, Hospitals, Retired Persons Accommodation, Schools, Pre schools, Special Schools and those parts of the community located in areas affected by sources of risk.

404. Details of those elements and/or parts of the community that are at risk are to be outlined in Local EMPlans.

REGION PLANNING STRUCTURE AND REGION EMPLAN REGIONAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE 405. The REMC consists of:

1. The Regional Emergency Operations Controller for the region who is to be the Chairperson of the Committee.




2. The Chairperson of the Local Emergency Management Committee for each local government area in the relevant region. 3. A senior representative of each emergency services organisation operating within the relevant region. 4. A representative of each Functional Area where determined appropriate by the respective State level Functional Area representative on the State Emergency Management Committee. 5. Representatives of any other agency or organisation as determined by the REMC.

406. The REMC is responsible for the following functions: 1. Monitor and review the implementation of emergency management policy and

practice as determined by the SEMC at the regional and local level that is not the responsibility of another emergency management agency, authority or other body.

2. Facilitate regional level emergency management capability through effective inter-agency coordination, cooperation and information sharing arrangements.

3. Consolidate and endorse emergency risk management processes of constituent local areas.

4. Prepare and review a Regional Emergency Management Plan for the relevant region. 5. Review and endorse Local EMPlans and other relevant local emergency management

plans from within the region. 6. Develop, conduct and evaluate appropriate regional emergency management

exercises to test all, or part of the Regional Emergency Management Plan. 7. Consolidate and endorse Emergency Management Training Needs Analysis from

constituent local areas. 8. Assist the REOCON to identify and maintain appropriate Regional Emergency

Operations Centre(s) for the relevant Emergency Management Region. 9. Recommend to the SEMC any proposals for the creation of combined local emergency

management committees within the region. 10. Perform any other functions assigned by the SEMC. In the exercise of its functions, the REMC is responsible to the SEMC.

REGIONAL SUPPORTING PLANS 407. Regional Supporting Plans describe the manner in which support is to be provided to the

controlling or coordinating body by Functional Areas during operations. Regional Supporting Plans and responsibility for their development, maintenance and implementation are detailed at Annex F. In the absence of a specific regional supporting plan, the arrangements at State level will apply.




REGIONAL SUB PLANS 408. The relevant Combat Agency Controller is responsible for preparing Sub Plans to deal with

specific hazards or emergencies. Preparation of Sub Plans is to be monitored by the REMC. Sub plans considered necessary by the REMC are detailed at Annex F. In the absence of a specific regional supporting plan, the arrangements at State level will apply.

ORGANISATIONAL PLANS 409. Site Emergency Plans, developed by major industries, are to be monitored by Local Emergency

Management Committees. There are no identified Major Hazard Facilities located in the North Coast Region as at September 2012.

LOCAL LEVEL PLANNING STRUCTURE AND LOCAL EMPLANS LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEES 410. Local Emergency Management Committees are subject to the direction of the Regional

Emergency Management Committee and are responsible to develop and maintain a Local EMPlan and Sub Plans relating to specific sources of risk. Supporting Plans for Functional Areas are to be developed and maintained, if required, by the relevant Regional Functional Area Coordinator.

LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANS 411. Local EMPlans are to recognise and reflect:

1. The roles detailed in this Plan for each Agency. 2. The roles and structures detailed in this Plan for each of the Functional Areas. 3. The combat agencies designated in this Plan. 4. The accreditation of “rescue units” approved by the State Rescue Board. 5. The activation procedures, mobilisation stages, sequence of actions and coordination,

response and recovery arrangements detailed in this Plan. 6. The liaison, evacuation and road closure arrangements detailed in this plan.

412. Local EMPlans are also to include: 1. Arrangements for handover of responsibility for emergency response operations and transition to recovery between Combat Agencies, the Local Emergency Operations Controller and any established recovery function. 2. Local rescue arrangements.




REGIONAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE (REOC) MANAGEMENT 413. The REOCON is responsible for:

1. Establishing, maintaining and controlling the REOC. 2. Preparing, maintaining and reviewing Standing Operating Procedures for the REOC. 3. Ensuring that sufficient adequately trained personnel are available to staff the REOC

when required. 4. Maintaining a contact directory of REOC staff. 5. Providing appropriate training for REOC staff.

414. Personnel to staff the REOC, except for Liaison Officers and their assistants, are to be drawn from the NSW Police Force and, if necessary, other agencies.

RESOURCE AND CONTACT DIRECTORIES 415. At regional and local levels, each Agency Controller, Functional Area Coordinator and other

organisation participating in EMPlan arrangements is to develop, maintain, disseminate and review up to date resource and contact directories, relevant to their operational requirements.

416. At the regional level, the Regional Emergency Management Officers maintain contact directories for Emergency Services, Combat Agencies and Functional Areas. See Annexes N and P.

417. At local level, Local Emergency Management Officers are to ensure that up to date resource and contact directories, relevant to the LEOCONs multi agency emergency management operational requirements are developed, maintained, disseminated and reviewed.

WARNING ARRANGEMENTS 418. LEOCONs and the relevant Regional Combat Agency Controllers are to advise the REOCON

whenever an event occurs which may: 1. Require EOCONs support at either local or regional level. 2. Escalate to a local or regional level emergency operation controlled by an EOCON. 419. The REOCON is responsible for advising the SEOCON and adjoining regions of developing situations. 420. Responsibilities for providing warnings to the community, the REOCON, Emergency Services, Functional Areas and other agencies in relation to the regions hazards/threats are detailed in the following matrix:




SOURCES OF RISK AGENCYRESPONSIBLE WARNING PROVIDED

ANIMAL, PEST AND PLANT DISEASES


• Warnings to the community, REOCON, and relevant agencies specific to exotic disease outbreaks & restricted areas.

CONTAMINATION OF WATER SUPPLY/ WATERWAYS

Public Health Units, OEH, EPA, Mid Coast Water, Rous Water or Local Councils

• Erection of warning signs at sites of contaminated water.

• Warnings to the wider community via electronic and print media.

FLOODING - Riverine SES Region Controllers • Pump & Stock Warnings, Local Flood Advices, Flood Bulletins, Flood Height Broadcasts & Evacuation Warnings to:

• Flood affected communities via the Media; • REOCON, and • Relevant agencies and Functional Areas.

FLOODING - Dam Failure

Relevant Dam Owner SES Region Controllers REOCON

• Specific warnings re concerns about safety of Dam to SES Region Controllers

• Specific warnings to the REOCON • Specific warnings including evacuation warnings

to the community HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SPILLAGES (Including CBRN Emergencies)

Police, LEOCON or REOCON (on behalf of Hazmat Controller) Local Health District Public Health Units.

• Evacuation warnings, public safety directions and warnings relating to spillages.

• Provide health warnings in the event of persons

being affected by hazardous materials. HUMAN INFLUENZA PANDEMIC

Hunter New England, Northern NSW & MNC Local Health Districts

• Written advice to SEOCON and Government about health alerts

• Provides public with health warnings and advice RURAL FIRES (bush, grass and other fire)

Bureau of Meteorology Rural Fire Service

• General fire weather advices to the wider community via regional electronic & print Media.

• Specific warnings & Total Fire Ban advice to the

Community, REOCON & relevant agencies and Functional Areas.

STORM and/or STORM SURGE

Bureau of Meteorology SES Region Controllers

• General advice to the wider community via regional electronic Media.

• General advices and warnings to the REOCON,

LEOCONs and relevant agencies and Functional Areas.

SIGNIFICANT INFRASTRUCTURE FAILURE/DAMAGE

Agency responsible for the infrastructure affected and/or REOCON

• General advices and warnings to the community, EOCONs, relevant agencies and Functional Areas.

OTHER WARNINGS REOCON • General and Evacuation Warnings to affected communities and relevant agencies and Functional Areas.




421. Public warnings may be communicated, by the responsible agency, to the wider community through the following regional electronic media:

1. Television Networks – ABC, NBN, PRIME7, Southern Cross TEN and Austar/Foxtel. 2. Radio Stations including:

STATION NAME COVERAGE REGION FREQUENCY

105.5 Star FM Coffs Harbour 105.5 FM

106.3 2CS FM Coffs Harbour 106.3 FM

ABC Local Radio Coffs Harbour 92.3 FM

Coffs Coast 2HC Coffs Harbour 639 AM

2GF 1206 AM Grafton 1206 AM

ABC Local Radio Grafton 738 AM

Clarence Coast FM 104.7 Grafton 104.7 FM

ABC Local Radio Kempsey 684 AM

100.9 ZZZ Lismore 100.9 FM

900 2LM Lismore 900 AM

ABC Local Radio Lismore 94.5 FM

Lord Howe Radio Lord Howe Island 100.1 FM

2MC FM Port Macquarie 100.7 FM

ABC Local Radio Port Macquarie 95.5 FM

Radio 531 Port Macquarie 531 AM

Star FM Port Macquarie 102.3 FM

ABC Local Radio Taree 756 AM

Max FM Taree 107.3 FM

Radio 2RE Taree 1557 AM

ABC Local Radio Tweed Heads 720 AM

Radio 97 Tweed Heads 972 AM

a. The ABC and Commercial Radio Australia have MOU’s with Emergency Management regarding the broadcast of emergency information. b. Several of the radio stations listed above rebroadcast their programs on low power FM stations in communities with poor reception and black spots within their coverage area. c. ABC Local Radio is able to adjust their transmitter configuration to join their North Coast and Mid North Coast services, or to make a transmitter operate




as a standalone station or part of the adjoining Local ABC Radio service. d. Other ABC broadcast radio services include Radio National, News Radio, Classic FM and Triple J. e. As at September 2012, there are 135 narrowcast AM and FM Radio Station licences in the North Coast Emergency Management Region. This includes many community based radio stations broadcasting local programming within local areas. Details of these stations should be included in local EMPlans. f. Other low power narrowcasters include Christian/church groups, tourist radio and TAB/racing services. Some of these may be able to record and then transmit continuously looped public warnings and community information messages. g. In extreme circumstances, it may be possible to link together ABC, commercial and community radio stations within an area in order to simultaneously broadcast the same programming on all radio station frequencies.

3. Internet sites including:

Bureau of Meteorology NSW Health

National Parks and Wildlife Service NSW Police Force

NSW Rural Fire Service Roads & Maritime Services

Ministry for Police & Emergency Services NSW State Emergency Service 4. Social Media including Facebook and Twitter should be utilised wherever possible in accordance with community expectations and any agency guidelines. 422. A guide to the content of warning messages is shown at Annex G. 423. If time permits, emergency and evacuation warnings are to be delivered by appropriate

personnel using a door knock operation and/or mobile public address systems.

STANDARD EMERGENCY WARNING SIGNAL (SEWS)

424. The Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS) may be utilised to alert the community to messages about things they can do to reduce potential loss of life and property.

425. SEWS is to only be used to warn the community when they need to take some urgent and immediate action in order to reduce the potential for loss to life or property from emergency events such as:

Biological Hazards Bushfires Cyclones Dam Failure

Severe Thunderstorms Severe Floods Terrorist Acts Tsunamis

Earthquake Aftershocks Gale Force Winds Hazardous Materials Emergencies




426. The purpose of SEWS is to:

1. Alert listeners/viewers of radio/television that an official emergency announcement, concerning an actual or potential emergency, is about to be made.

2. Alert the community at large, via a public address system, to an important official emergency announcement.

AUTHORITY TO USE SEWS

427. Emergency Operations Controllers, Combat Agency Commanders/Controllers at Local, regional and State level are authorised to use SEWS for the purposes in paragraphs 424-425.

PROCEDURE FOR THE USE OF SEWS 428. Requests to the media to broadcast SEWS will be confirmed by facsimile.

429. The SEMC is responsible for issuing the SEWS signal to the electronic media. EMERGENCY ALERT 430. Emergency Alert is an Australian-wide system sending telephony based warning messages to

the community in times of emergency. Emergency alert can be used in NSW to alert people in locations that may be subject to life threatening emergencies.

431. Emergency Alert can send warning messages to fixed landlines or by text message to mobile phones. Messages will be received on landlines at the location at which the service is connected and on mobile telephones by the billing address of the mobile phone service. 432. NSW Emergency management agencies work within a best practice framework for warning

and alerting. Traditional warning mechanisms such as door knocking, use of broadcast media, use of standard emergency warning signal (SEWS) and sirens are used effectively across the State to warn communities in danger. Emergency Alert is just one tool and needs to be used with other warning methods.

433. In New South Wales, Emergency Alert is available for use by authorised Emergency Management Persons (EMP) across all hazards. Emergency Alert can be accessed by the

Combat Agency or by the LEOCON through the REOCON and SEOCON. 434. Messages may be issued by:

1. Combat agency controllers through their State level as per EMPlan and hazard-specific sub-plans (Note: Department of Primary Industries, NSW Health and the Department of Environment and Conservation will issue messages via SEOCON).

2. All other agencies – messages to be issued via the SEOCON.




A complete list of incidents and operations controllers as per EMPlan is included below:

EMERGENCY RESPONSIBLE AGENCY

Animal & plant disease, rodent or insect plague Dept of Primary Industries

Aviation emergency SEOCON

Fire in rural fire district NSW Rural Fire Service

Fire in a fire district Fire & Rescue NSW

Flood (including dam failure) NSW State Emergency Service

Hazardous material:

• On land

• Inland Waters

• State Waters

Fire & Rescue NSW

Fire & Rescue NSW

Relevant Port Authority or Roads & Maritime Services

Law enforcement during a declaration NSW Police Force

Major structural collapse SEOCON

Pandemic NSW Ministry of Health

Search and Rescue NSW Police Force

Storm (including coastal erosion and coastal inundation)

NSW State Emergency Service

Terrorist Act NSW Police Force

Tsunami NSW State Emergency Service

435. The area to be warned must be identified by a polygon drawn on a map. Polygons can be

prepared in advance for identified communities facing known threats. 436. The NSW Operating Guidelines for Emergency Alert contain more detailed information. COMMUNITY RELATIONS 437. In the course of a response to an emergency, Emergency Service Organisations and / or

Functional Areas may encounter community relations issues which may arise from the emergency, or from other events.

438. Any situations are to be referred to the Chairperson of the Community Relations Commission for a Multicultural NSW. If in the Chairpersons opinion, in consultation with community leaders and CEOs of relevant government agencies or by the Premier, the situation represents a crisis in community relations the NSW Community Relations Crisis Management Plan may be activated.




439. It is the responsibility of Controllers and Functional Area Coordinators to ensure that their organisations are aware of the requirements to notify of community relations issues in responses to an emergency and are familiar with the contents of the Community Relations Crisis Management Plan.

PUBLIC EDUCATION 440. Responsibilities for the conduct and coordination of public education relating to identified risks within the region are detailed in the following matrix:

SOURCES OF RISK AGENCY AND RESPONSIBILITY

EXOTIC ANIMAL AND PLANT DISEASE

• NSW Dept of Primary Industries is responsible for public awareness concerning the implications of exotic animal and plant disease and appropriate strategies for its prevention and detection.

FLOODING - (RIVERINE AND DAM FAILURE)

• State Emergency Service Region and Local Controllers are responsible for ensuring, as detailed in SES Region and Local Flood Plans, that the residents of their areas are aware of the flood threat and how to protect themselves against it.

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SPILLAGES, INCLUDING CBRN EMERGENCIES

• Workcover Authority issues information relating to safe storage and transport practices.

• EPA conduct Hazmat Incident and Emergency training seminars. • Fire & Rescue NSW issues information relating to safe storage and transport

practices. • Local Health Districts provide health advice and warnings in the event of persons

being affected by hazardous materials. INFECTIOUS DISEASE AFFECTING HUMANS

• NSW Ministry of Health is responsible for public awareness concerning the implications of an infectious disease outbreak and the appropriate strategies for its detection, treatment and containment.

PANDEMIC INFLUENZA AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES AFFECTING HUMANS

• Public Health Units conduct an annual winter illness public information campaign • Local Health Districts use education strategies to encourages individuals to

prepare for pandemic as part of their normal household emergency preparedness

RURAL FIRES (bush and grass fires)

• Rural Fire Service coordinates public education programs relating to the bush and grass fire threat throughout the region.

STORMS • State Emergency Service Region Controllers are responsible for ensuring that the residents of their regions are aware of the likely effects of storm and how to protect themselves against it.

http://www.agric.nsw.gov.au/reader/emergency�

http://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/contact.html�

http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/default.htm�

http://www.nswfb.nsw.gov.au/community/index.htm�

http://www.nrahs.nsw.gov.au/planning�

http://www.nrahs.nsw.gov.au/planning�

http://www.bushfire.nsw.gov.au/index.cfm?cid=16&cfid=522458&cftoken=84978631�

http://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/community_info/community.html�




PART 5

CONTROL AND COORDINATION REGIONAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CONTROLLER (REOCON)

501. The Officer holding the position of Region Commander, Northern Police Region, is the

Regional Emergency Operations Controller (REOCON) for the North Coast Emergency Management Region.

TYPES OF OPERATIONS 502. Without limiting the authority of Combat Agency Controllers, Combat Agency operations may

be managed in the following ways: COMBAT AGENCY MANAGED OPERATIONS 1. The responsible Combat Agency Controller controls the operation which requires no

support resources other than the Combat Agency resources, or 2. The responsible Combat Agency Controller: a. Controls the operation. b. Coordinates pre-planned support from other agencies. c. Ensures that the REOCON is kept aware of these operations, or 3. The responsible Combat Agency Controller retains overall control of the operation

and requests the REOCON to: a. Coordinate the support services specified by the Combat Agency

Controller. b. Manage part of the operation to meet the requirements of the Combat

Agency Controller, (eg. evacuation operations). OPERATIONS CONTROLLED BY THE REOCON 4. Operations controlled by the REOCON are those where: a. The REOCON is designated in a plan as the controller of a specific

operation. b. The REOCON automatically assumes control for operations where there

is no designated Combat Agency.




5. The REOCON will not assume control from a Combat Agency without the agreement of the Combat Agency and the State Emergency Operations Controller, or as directed by the Minister.

6. During these operations, the REOCON controls the operation and coordinates resources. Individual agencies command their own resources and carry out tasks as directed.

OPERATIONAL CONTROL, COORDINATION AND PLANNING RELATIONSHIPS 503. Operational control, coordination and planning relationships are shown at Annex H. REGIONAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE (REOC) 504. The NSW Emergency Operations Centre Policy provides guidance for establishing Emergency

Operations Centres. 505. Details of the location of the Primary Regional Emergency Operations Centre are for restricted

distribution. Refer to Annex O. 506. Details of the location of the Alternate Regional Emergency Operations Centre are for

restricted distribution. In the event of both the REOC and Alternate REOC becoming inoperable, an alternate REOC will be established at a location to be advised by the REOCON at the time of the operation.

507. The REOC, or Alternate REOC, is controlled by the REOCON and when activated is the focal point for regional level supported or emergency operations.

REGION CONTROL AND COORDINATION CENTRES 508. The locations of Agency and Functional Area Region Control and Coordination Centres are

detailed at Annex I of this Plan. LOCAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRES (LEOC) 509. The locations of Local Emergency Operations Centres are listed at Annex N of this Plan. LIAISON ARRANGEMENTS 510. During Combat Agency managed operations the REOCON will normally provide a liaison officer

to the Combat Agency Control / Operations Centre.




511. During Combat Agency managed operations, emergency services, functional areas and other agencies are to provide a liaison officer to the Combat Agency Operations Centre, if necessary on a continuous basis for the duration of operations.

512. During operations controlled by the REOCON, emergency services, functional areas and other agencies are to provide a liaison officer to the Regional Emergency Operations Centre, if necessary on a continuous basis for the duration of operations.

513. Liaison officers are nominated or appointed by an organisation or functional area, to represent that organisation or functional area at a control centre, emergency operations centre or coordination centre. A liaison officer maintains communications with and conveys directions/requests to their organisation or functional area, and provides advice on the status, capabilities, actions and requirements of their organisation or functional area.

514. Liaison officers are also responsible to brief their own organisation/agency on the progress and likely requirements of operations.

515. During prolonged operations the REOCON may conduct reporting/ briefing/planning meetings daily. These meetings are to be attended by agency controllers, functional area coordinators and other agencies involved in operations. If practical, LEOCONs, or their delegate, should also attend these meetings.

COMMUNICATIONS 516. Telephone, fax and email services are to be the primary means of communication, between

operations centres, for control and coordination of emergency management operations. 517. The alternate means of communications, should the primary means fail or be unable to

provide sufficient flexibility, is to be the normal radio communication systems utilised by the agencies involved in emergency management operations.

518. The REOCON may coordinate the provision of radio communications systems for emergency services, functional areas and other agencies unable to provide their own alternate radio communications systems. The REOCON is to determine the need and, if necessary, arrange the provision of radio links between the REOC and LEOCs within the North Coast Emergency Management Region.

INFORMATION AND INTELLIGENCE 519. During operations controlled by the REOCON, the REOCON is responsible for the passage of

operational information and intelligence to the SEOCON and adjoining REOCONS. 520. During Combat Agency managed operations the relevant Combat Agency Controller is

responsible for the passage of public information to the community and the media, and for operational information and intelligence between the REOCON, LEOCONs and all involved agencies.




521. During Combat Agency managed operations the relevant Combat Agency Controller may request the REOCON to assume responsibility for the passage of all or certain classes of operational information and intelligence between LEOCONs and/or involved agencies.

522. During operations controlled by the REOCON, they will be responsible for: 1. The passage of operational information and intelligence between LEOCONs

and/or all involved agencies, using the REOC as the collection and distribution point. 2. The passage of public information to the community. 3. The release of regular media releases. 4. Ensuring the SEOCON / SEOC is kept informed of developments and forecast

support needs. 523. The relevant LEOCONs are responsible for the passage of operational information and

intelligence to the REOCON during all types of emergency operations and stages of activation at the local level.

FUNCTIONAL AREA SUPPORT FROM STATE LEVEL 524. The Public Information Services and Communications Services Functional Areas are not

established at the region or local level. Support services from these functional areas may be provided by the SEOCON at the request of the REOCON.

525. Limited media liaison services support is available from some agencies within the region and may be utilised during regional and local operations at the discretion of the REOCON. Additional media support services may be arranged in accordance with the paragraph above.

526. The Energy and Utilities Functional Area is not established at the regional or local level. Technical advice or assistance relating to this functional area is coordinated by the Regional Engineering Services Functional Area Coordinator. Requests for operational support are to be directed through the REOCON to the SEOCON.

FUNCTIONAL AREA SUPPORT TO LOCAL LEVEL OPERATIONS 527. Functional areas have not been established at the individual local area level. Support provided

to local level operations by the Functional Areas is coordinated by the relevant Regional Functional Area Coordinator.

RESCUE OPERATIONS 528. Rescue arrangements detailed in this Plan are subject to the provisions of the State Rescue Policy and the command structure of the NSW Police Force, except when an operation is controlled by a Combat Agency during flood and fires or an Emergency Operations Controller.




529. Initial response to rescue operations is coordinated by Police Operations Staff at VKG3 Newcastle (Police Communications). Coordination of a rescue operation passes to the senior officer on the first police vehicle to arrive at the scene. 530. The general areas of operation of the accredited rescue units operating within the region are described, in general terms, in the General Land and Vertical Rescue Rural Service Delivery Model studies undertaken by Local Rescue Committees. However, it is acknowledged that Rescue Units may be tasked to a rescue outside the units normal area of operations by Police Operations Staff at Police VKG3 Newcastle if it is considered to be the unit with the shortest response time. 531. Marine rescue operations are coordinated by NSW Police Marine Area Command assisted Marine Rescue Units accredited by the State Rescue Board. 532. Rescue arrangements at regional level are managed by the REOCON assisted by the North Coast Regional Rescue Committee. The North Coast Regional Marine Rescue Advisory Committee provides advice on the marine rescue arrangements for the region. 533. Rescue arrangements at the local level are determined by the relevant LEOCON, assisted by a

Local Rescue Committee. Local Rescue Committees are responsible to the North Coast Regional Rescue Committee, which in turn is responsible to the State Rescue Board for the implementation of State Rescue Policy.

534. Rescue related matters raised at Emergency Management Committee meetings are to be referred, as soon as practical, to the relevant Rescue Committee or EOCON.




PART 6

EMERGENCY RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS RESPONSE ARRANGEMENTS 601. The arrangements detailed in this EMPlan are always active. The REOCON is responsible for

initiating response actions when: 1. Local emergency operations are being conducted and regional level support may be

required. 2. It is necessary to coordinate two or more local level emergency operations. 3. Support to an adjoining region may be required. 4. A regional level emergency response operation is required. 5. Directed by the SEOCON.

602. Emergency Operations Controllers would not normally assume control of an operation from a designated Combat Agency unless the situation can no longer be contained and a change of control is likely to improve matters. In any case, a change of control at any level can only occur after consultation between SEOCON and the State Controller of the Combat Agency, and agreement from the latter, or at the direction of the Minister.

603. The REOCON shall be made aware of any incident or situation at a local or regional level that: 1. Is a significant or unusual occurrence. 2. Is likely to have a significant impact on the community or environment. 3. Is likely to receive significant media or political attention. 4. May require assistance from outside the Combat Agency.

604. These arrangements apply without the need for any declaration of a State of Emergency. STAGES OF ACTIVATION 605. The recognised stages of alert are:

1. WHITE – Monitor Due to the nature of the event and time constraints, the White (Monitor) and/or Yellow (Standby) stages may be bypassed.

2. YELLOW – Standby 3. RED – Operational 4 GREEN – Stand down




PHASE ACTION

WHITE

(MONITOR)

a. REOCON receives advice on operations which could escalate to an emergency, or which could require coordination of support.

b. REOCON monitors the situation. c. REOCON informs, as appropriate:

i. Local Emergency Operations Controllers. ii. Combat Agencies and Functional Areas iii. REOCON (s) from adjoining region(s). iv. State Emergency Operations Controller.

d. If necessary, REOCON activates REOC to appropriate state of readiness.

PHASE ACTION

YELLOW

(ALERT)

a. Combat Agency, LEOCON or SEOCON advises REOCON that assistance under EMPlan arrangements may be required, or b. REOCON determines that a regional level emergency operation is likely to be required. c. The REOCON: i. continues to monitor the situation. ii. activates the arrangements in EMPlan if required. iii. activates REOC to appropriate state of readiness. iv. advises relevant Emergency Services and Functional Areas to

standby. v. briefs REOC staff, LEOCONS, adjoining REOCONS and SEOCON d. Liaison Officers report to REOC if requested.

PHASE ACTION

RED (OPERATIONAL)

a. Impact emergency occurs, or Combat Agency, SEOCON or LEOCON advises REOCON that support is required. b. The REOCON:

i. escalates REOC to required state of readiness. ii. activates relevant Agencies and requests Liaison Officers to report to

REOC. iii. liaises with the SEOCON, adjoining REOCONS and LEOCONs as

required. c. Liaison Officers maintain contact with their respective agencies and

respond resources as directed by the REOCON, in accordance with the appropriate plan.




PHASE ACTION

GREEN (STAND-DOWN)

a. Combat Agency, SEOCON or LEOCON advises REOCON that support is no longer required, or the REOCON determines that regional level operations are no longer required. b. The REOCON:

i. hands control to Combat Agency or LEOCON. ii. advises Liaison Officers. iii. arranges time and location for debriefing. iv. advises LEOCONs, adjoining REOCONS and SEOCON as appropriate.

c. Emergency Service and Functional Area personnel are debriefed and stood down on completion of their final tasks. d. Final reports are completed and distributed by Agencies in accordance with Standing Operating Procedures.

RESOURCE DEPLOYMENT 606. Priorities for deployment of resources being coordinated by the REOCON are determined by

the REOCON. RESOURCE ASSEMBLY AREAS 607. Resource Assembly Areas are to be identified by either the Combat Agency or the REOCON to

facilitate the marshalling and deployment of resources arriving from outside the region, or from other local areas within the region.

DANGER AREA 608. A senior police officer, being of the rank of sergeant or above, can specify an area affected by

an emergency as a danger area. The perimeter of any Danger Area should be clearly defined and Police are to control access to and egress from the danger area.

SITE CONTROL 609. An Emergency Operations Controller may appoint a Police Officer to assume the role of Site Controller. Until a Site Controller is appointed, the senior Police Officer at the scene will ensure that the functions of a Site Controller are carried out. A Site Controller performs an emergency management function and does not directly command Police or members of other agencies. A Site Controller reports to and is subject to the direction of the relevant Emergency Operations Controller.




610. A Site Controller must establish an appropriate Site Control structure and work with other Agency Commanders at the scene to assess the situation, determine priorities, make important and timely decisions, and ensure tasks are actioned. 611. A Site Controller must ensure that the following are managed at the scene: 1. Implementation of site control structure. 2. Communication between agencies present. 3. Request and allocation of resources. 4. On-going assessment. 5. Determination of priorities. 6. Appropriate information flow.

EVACUATION ARRANGEMENTS 612. Evacuation of persons or animals from an area of danger or potential danger is a possible

strategy in combating any particular hazard impact. DECISION TO EVACUATE 613. The decision to evacuate persons or animals should not be taken lightly. During evacuations

there are many tasks that need to be carried out by a number of different organisations. This necessitates a coordinated approach to ensure that all the evacuee's needs are met. In some circumstances, it may be more appropriate for people to remain in their homes and take other measures to ensure their safety.

614. The requirement to evacuate or shelter in place will ideally be identified during the planning process and be included in organisation's sub plans or standing operating procedures as necessary.

615. The organisation with the authority to order an evacuation is to ensure that the community is informed, through a public education program, of the proposed evacuation strategies. Information leaflets should also be provided, if appropriate.

616. The controller of the emergency (Combat Agency Controller, Section 44 Appointee/Incident Controller, LEOCON or REOCON) will determine the need for evacuation. Early identification of evacuation as a possible strategy during a response operation may allow time for the controller to brief the LEOCON/Local Emergency Management Committee allowing for more specific preparedness measures to be taken. At the first available opportunity the LEOCON will also advise the REOCON in order that Regional Functional Areas can be alerted.

617. If evacuation is the preferred option, the Controller is to consult with the Welfare Services Functional Area Coordinator to identify which safe and suitable Evacuation Centre(s) from those identified in Local EMPlans will be utilised.




AUTHORITY TO EVACUATE 618. The Authority to order an evacuation must also be clear. The following Table indicates which

individuals and organisations have authority to order an evacuation of persons or animals and under which circumstances.

INDIVIDUAL/ORGANISATION CIRCUMSTANCES

The Minister, or an "emergency services officer" (as defined) when authorised by the Minister.

During a declared State of Emergency, direct a person to leave premises and move out of an emergency area or part thereof, taking any persons in their care with them, and/or not to enter an emergency area or part thereof. s37 SERM Act

A senior Police Officer (ie of or above the rank of Sergeant)

If satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for doing so for the purpose of protecting persons from injury or death threatened by an actual or imminent emergency. s60L SERM Act

Police Officer

In support of the authority of a member of the Fire Brigades acting under the Commissioners orders and to assist him or her where the persons are or property is endangered by fire or a hazardous materials incident. s25 Fire Brigades Act In support of the authority of and in compliance with directions given by the RFS Commissioner, other RFS Officers or Incident Controller in connection with the prevention, control and suppression of any rural fire. s44 Rural Fires Act As an authorised officer, power to control persons and vehicles in the forest estate and direct persons and vehicles to leave an area if the activities being undertaken or conditions constitute a danger or potential danger to the safety of persons or property. s15 Forestry Act

A Police officer and all other members of emergency service organisations

In recognition of the authority of the Commissioner and Emergency Officers, provide assistance in connection with flood or storm and tempest operations. s21 State Emergency Service Act

The Fire Brigade officer in charge at a fire or hazardous materials incident.

Take such measures as the officer thinks fit to protect life and property and to remove any person, vehicle, vessel or thing which might interfere with the work of the Fire Brigades. s13 & s19 Fire Brigades Act

The Commissioner, NSW State Emergency Service or an "Emergency Officer"(as defined) when authorised by the Commissioner.

Direct a person to leave premises and move out of an emergency area or part thereof, taking any persons in their care with them, and/or not to enter an emergency area or part thereof. s22 SERM Act

Rural Fire Brigade Captains, Group Captains, Fire Control Officers, the Commissioner Rural Fire Service, or their respective deputies or appointees.

Do any act, matter or thing (including evacuation) necessary for or incidental to the protection of life or property from any existing or imminent bush fire danger. s22, s38, s44 Rural Fires Act Does not apply to land or property vested in or under the control of the Railcorp, unless ARTC grants permission.




INDIVIDUAL/ORGANISATION CIRCUMSTANCES

NSW State Emergency Service Authority is limited to the evacuation of people during flood, storm and tempest, or at the direction of the State Emergency Operations Controller. s19, s22 SERM Act

Ambulance Service of NSW The Ambulance Service may be directed by the NSW Police to assist in the conduct of evacuations, or, during a declared State of Emergency, by any authorised officer as determined under s37 SERM Act. Evacuation of medical facilities such as hospitals or nursing homes will be at the direction of the Medical Controller.

Local Government Authorities In connection with fire safety related to buildings, the issue of orders to cease the use of premises evacuate premises, to leave premises, or not to enter premises. s124-s152 Local Government Act

WARNING 619. Evacuation warnings to the public, or advice not to evacuate, are to be authorised and

released by the person or agency nominated the table at paragraph 420 and in accordance with the agency's normal operating procedures.

620. The normal means of disseminating warnings and advice to the public is via the electronic media. In some circumstances, particularly if there is a need for urgent evacuations or other actions, evacuation warnings will be reinforced by: 1. Use of public address systems fitted to emergency service vehicles. 2. Evacuation teams, made up of emergency services personnel and others as necessary,

to carry out door knocks of the affected area. 621. Warnings to evacuate, whether disseminated via the media or by door knocks, should contain:

1. Instruction to evacuate. 2. Location of assembly areas for transport to welfare centres. 3. Location of Evacuation Centres, for those using private transport. 4. Authorised route(s) to evacuations centres. 5. Arrangements for children in schools and pre-schools. 6. Arrangements for elderly or infirm residents unable to self evacuate. 7. Likely duration of the evacuation.

WITHDRAWAL 622. The Combat Agency may initiate and conduct evacuations if it is within it's capability but must

liaise with Police to ensure security of the evacuated area. Consultation must also occur with the necessary supporting services, eg. Welfare Services and Transport Services Coordinators.




623. Police, if requested by the Combat Agency Controller, Section 44 (Rural Fires Act) Incident Controller, LEOCON or REOCON, will conduct the evacuations of persons to the selected Evacuation Centre, secure the affected area and coordinate Disaster Victim Registration. Police are to advise the Welfare Services Functional Area Coordinator of the activation of the selected Evacuation Centres.

624. Transport is to be organised by the Transport Services Functional Area Coordinator. 625. Buildings that have been evacuated are identified as directed (eg with a towel, similar item or

emergency service barrier tape securely tied to the front door handle or nearby fixture) so as to be visible from the street. This obviates the need to revisit individual premises to ensure they have been evacuated.

626. The Combat Agency Controller, Appointee/Incident Controller, LEOCON or REOCON is to arrange for a check of the area to ensure the evacuation has been effective.

627. Response to some hazard impacts may require the partial or complete evacuation of some smaller town and village areas to larger centres. If evacuation to an adjoining local area or region is necessary, operations are to be controlled at a regional Level. Evacuation strategies to deal with such situations are detailed in Local EMPlans.

SHELTER 628. Assembly areas and Evacuation Centres that may be used in an emergency are to be detailed

in Local EMPlans. LEMCs are to ensure the contact details of key holders of evacuation centres are maintained and kept up to date.

629. The LEMCs and Regional Welfare Services Functional Area Coordinator is to ensure that nominated evacuation centres, on a regular basis, are assessed as suitable for use.

630. The Regional Welfare Services Functional Area Coordinator is to: 1. Arrange for staffing of the identified Evacuation Centre(s) in time to receive evacuees. 2. Provide welfare support services to evacuees in accordance with the Welfare Services

supporting Plan. 3. Address longer term accommodation arrangements.

RETURN 631. The Agency/Authority who initiated the evacuation determines, in consultation with the

Combat Agency, Recovery Coordinating Committee (if established), and the Coordinators of the Engineering Services, Health Services and Welfare Services Functional Areas, when it is safe for evacuees to return to their homes, and arranges for the evacuees to be advised accordingly.

632. Transport is to be arranged by the Transport Service Functional Area Coordinator.




NEIGHBOURHOOD SAFER PLACES 633. Neighbourhood Safer Places are a place of last resort for people which can be used during a

bush fire. They are a new concept that has evolved out of the Victorian ‘Black Saturday’ bush fires in February 2009. They can be used when your Bush Fire Survival Plan cannot be implemented or has failed. An NSP is an identified building or space within the community that can provide a higher level of protection from the immediate life threatening effects of a bush fire. NSPs still entail some risk, both in moving to them and while sheltering in them and cannot be considered completely safe. They are a place of last resort in emergencies only.

634. Neighbourhood Safer Places: 1. Do not cater for pets. 2. Do not always have emergency services present. 3. Do not provide meals, amenity or cater for special needs (e.g. for infants, the aged, the

ill or disabled). 4. May not provide shelter from the elements, particularly flying embers.

635. State level arrangements exist for SEOC to notify NSP owners by SMS when Total Fire Bans are declared. When Watch and Act and Emergency Warnings are issued by the RFS, the RFS will advise Police of the likely fire path and impact areas. Where appropriate, Police should ensure the owner/operator of NSPs is available to open the building or confirm that access is available.

636. When the RFS revokes the warnings and/or the immediate fire danger has passed, the Police shall attend the affected NSPs at the earliest opportunity to check on the welfare of any people at the NSPs and organise any support required in conjunction with the LEMC.

ROAD CLOSURES 637. Those individuals or organisations which have authority to close roads, and under which

circumstances are listed in Annex K. ROAD CLOSURES ADVICE & ROAD INFORMATION 638. The Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) and the Transport Management Centre (TMC) will

manage and resource road closures and/or diversions around incidents or emergencies impacting Highways and State Roads. All such closures, incidents or emergencies on these roads are to be communicated to the TMC immediately any Combat Agency or other organisation / individual becomes aware of such closure or incident or emergency.




639. The TMC is to be informed immediately any major transport route is closed or affected by an incident or emergency. Most major transport routes are State Roads under the authority of the RMS and they will manage and resource any closures, diversions, or repairs necessary. RMS staff or contractors (local Councils) will undertake such activities as required. Annex L shows the network of State Roads within the North Coast Region.

640. The REOCON must be informed when any major transport routes within the region are closed for any reason during a regional level emergency operation.

641. During local level emergencies, Local Emergency Operations Controllers are responsible for collection, collation and dissemination of information on road condition and closure.

642. Public information concerning road closures may be disseminated in various manners including Council, MyRoadInfo and LiveTraffic websites, VMS displays and the media.

643. Regardless of the level of event, any Combat Agency or other organisation/individual responsible for closing a major road is to ensure that the Police and the road authority responsible for the road are advised of it's closure at the first available opportunity (road authorities in this region relates to Local Councils and the Road and Maritime Services).

644. The road authority responsible for a major road which has been closed on advice from the Combat Agency, Police or another road authority, is to ensure signposting of the closed road and, in consultation with the Combat Agency, Police and other road authorities, select and ensure sign posting of a suitable alternate route.

645. Should the incident or emergency be prolonged, the responsible road authority for any road closure is to ensure selection, signposting and management of alternate routes if practicable having regard to the timeframe of the incident or emergency.

646. Road authorities are not to reopen a closed road without first consulting with the agency responsible for closing the road, the Police or other road authorities, to determine if it is safe to do so.

ASSISTANCE FROM OTHER REGIONS 647. Combat Agencies/Emergency Services may obtain their own organisations resources from

outside the region. The REOCON is to be advised when this occurs. 648. All other requests for out of area resources are to be passed by the REOCON to the SEOCON,

or acted upon in accordance with the appropriate plan. ASSISTANCE TO OTHER REGIONS 649. Combat Agencies/Emergency Services may deploy their own organisations resources outside

the region. The REOCON is to be advised when this occurs. 650. Functional Areas may deploy their own functional area resources outside the region in

accordance with their respective Supporting Plans. The REOCON is to be advised when this occurs.




URBAN SEARCH AND RESCUE RESOUCES (USAR) 651. NSW has developed extensive USAR resources. Although developed specifically for USAR

operations, the resources may be useful in emergencies other than major structure collapse. The resources, including technical advice, personnel and equipment may be accessed utilising the normal emergency management arrangements without the need to activate the Major Structure Collapse Plan.

AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE ASSISTANCE TO THE COMMUNITY 652. Commonwealth and Defence support may be available to perform emergency tasks within the

region where State authorities are unable to cope. 653. Access to Commonwealth support is arranged by the State Emergency Operations Centre

(SEOC) through the Commonwealth Crisis Coordination Centre (AGDCCC) located in Canberra. 654. Details of the emergency categories of Defence Assistance to the Civil Community and

arrangements for obtaining such assistance are detailed at Annex J of this Plan. LOGISTIC SUPPORT 655. Responding agencies and organisations are responsible for providing their own logistic

support, including re-supply and relief of their own personnel. 656. Responding agencies and organisations are responsible for advising the REOCON of any

specific requirements which cannot be met from their own resources. IMPACT ASSESSMENTS 657. It is the responsibility of LEOCONs to complete Impact Assessments following significant events. An EOC may be established to gather the necessary information and the REMO is able to assist in this task. Ideally, the initial Impact Assessment should be completed within 24 hours of the event impact and subsequent assessments may be required as further information becomes available. 658. LEOCONs will forward completed Impact Assessments and any recommendations concerning formal recovery operations to the REOCON for advice of the SEOCON and SERCON. EMERGENCY FUNDING 659. Combat Agencies, Emergency Services and Functional Areas have their own systems for

emergency funding, which are to be used.




660. For Participating and Supporting Organisations, which are Government Departments or Authorities, the cost of providing resources, including Liaison Officers, during emergency response or recovery operations is to be met in the first instance by the providers from their normal operating budgets.

661. For private sector organisations or personnel, the cost of providing resources during emergency response or recovery operations is to be met by the requesting agency, which would usually be the agency/organisation responsible for meeting the cost during normal circumstances.

STAND DOWN 662. The relevant Combat Agency Controller is responsible for issuing the Stand Down order and

conducting a debrief of all agencies involved in regional level Combat Agency operations. The Controller is also to provide the REOCON with a report on the operation and debrief, for presentation to the REMC.

663. The REOCON, in consultation with the relevant Combat Agency if appropriate, is responsible for issuing the Stand Down and conducting a debrief of all agencies, including LEOCONs, controlled or coordinated by the REOCON during: 1. Regional supported operations. 2. Regional level emergency operations.

DEBRIEFS AND AFTER ACTION REVIEWS 664. Following regional supported operations or regional level emergency operations:

1. The REOCON debriefs REOC staff before closing the REOC. 2. Each agency involved in an operation is to conduct a debrief of its own personnel and

report to the REOCON within fourteen days of the issue of the Stand Down. 3. The REOCON conducts a multiagency debrief within twenty one days of the issue of

the Stand Down. 4. The REOCON advises the REMC on lessons learnt from the operation and matters

highlighted during any debrief. A copy of the report is to be forwarded to the SEOCON. 665. LEOCONS shall provide the REOCON with a copy of lessons learnt reports from local

operations and/or any issues highlighted during LEOC and LEMC debriefs.




PART 7

RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS NSW STATE RECOVERY PLAN 701. This part of the North Coast EMPlan should be read in conjunction with the NSW State

Recovery Plan, the suite of supporting Recovery guidelines and the National Disaster Recovery Principles.

GENERAL 702. Recovery should begin as soon as possible with the aim of satisfying personal and community

needs, and to restore services to the level where the continuing processes can be managed by local government and the normal responsible agencies within the community.

703. The purpose of recovery operations is to assist the affected communities to manage its own recovery, while recognising there will probably be an initial need for external technical, physical and financial assistance.

704. It is essential that the requirements of recovery operations are assessed and planned during the earliest stages of response operations. The overlap between the commencement of recovery and the completion of response operations, and the handover of responsibilities between the combat and response agencies and the recovery agencies requires careful consideration.

705. Specific groups may need to be established to manage the four recovery environments: 1. The Human/Social Environment. 2. The Built/Infrastructure Environment. 3. The Natural Environment. 4. The Economic Environment.

LOCAL RECOVERY OPERATIONS 706. The LEMC should meet as soon as possible following the completion of the Initial Impact

Assessment to consider the LEOCONs recommendations regarding the need for formal recovery operations.

707. Further Impact Assessments may be done as information becomes available and the LEOCONs recommendations may change over time.

708. The LEMC might decide to establish a Local Recovery Committee and the SERCON, in consultation with the SEOCON, might recommend the appointment of a Local Recovery Coordinator.




709. The Local Recovery Committee and the Local Recovery Coordinator might decide to establish a Recovery Centre to provide a one-stop shop to assist with the provision of information and services to the affected community.

710. In the event that there is likely to be the need for significant external assistance, or the area affected covers more than one local government area, the SERCON might recommend the appointment of a District, Regional or State Recovery Coordinator.

REGIONAL RECOVERY OPERATIONS 711. When an emergency affects several local government areas, or significant regional level

resources are being committed to a local recovery operation, the REMC will meet to be briefed by the Local Recovery Coordinator(s) and combat and recovery agencies. The REMC may consider the need for a Regional Recovery Committee and may recommend the appointment of a District or higher level Recovery Coordinator. This, along with any suggestion as to the person who might be appointed to the position, is conveyed to the SEOCON for consultation with the SERCON.

712. Following the principle that recovery should occur at the local level, it would be unusual for a Regional Recovery Committee to operate without having one operating at the local level.

RECOVERY COORDINATORS 713. The SERCON will recommend the appointment of a Recovery Coordinator when there is a

need for a formal recovery operation. 714. Recovery Coordinators are the public face of the recovery operation, providing leadership to the Recovery Committee and coordinating the recovery effort in accordance with agreed recovery plans. They establish and maintain liaison with the Combat Agency Controller and REOCON/LEOCONs. 715. The Recovery Coordinator’s specific functions will be determined by the SERCON on an event

by event basis including the following: 1. Develop and maintain an operational picture of the emergency’s impact and

keep the Recovery Committee informed. 2. Facilitate and coordinate recovery operations, including needs assessment,

priority setting and resource allocation. 3. Establish regular dialogue with key stakeholders to ensure their participation in,

and awareness of, the intended recovery process. 4. Assist with facilitation and coordination of government, non-government and

private sector organisations’ services involved in the recovery process. 5. Identify areas where existing policy provisions are unlikely to be sufficient to achieve

the required recovery level and provide advice to the SERCON.




6. At the conclusion of the official recovery phase, provide a report to the SERCON detailing actions taken, monies expended, predicted further expenditure required, lessons identified and recommended reduction measures to prevent or mitigate future emergencies.

RECOVERY COMMITTEES 716. Recovery Committees are the strategic decision making body for recovery. They provide

visible and strong leadership and have a key role in restoring confidence to the community through assessing the consequences of the emergency and coordinating activities to rebuilding, restoring and rehabilitating the social, built, economic and natural environments of the affected community. The committee guides decisions about priorities, resource allocation and management.

717. Recovery Committees will: 1. Develop and maintain a Recovery Action Plan with an agreed exit strategy. 2. Monitor and coordinate the activities of agencies with responsibility for the delivery of services during recovery. 3. Ensure that relevant stakeholders, especially the communities affected, are involved in the development and implementation of recovery objectives and strategies and are informed of progress made. 4. Provide the SERCON with an end of recovery report. 5. Ensure the recovery is in line with the National Principles of Disaster Recovery and the NSW Recovery tenets. 718. Local Recovery Committees will normally be chaired by a senior member of local government for the area it is responsible for eg the Mayor or General Manager. 719. It is acknowledged that other agencies, not specifically designated as members of Emergency Management Committees, may be part of a Recovery Committee. The Recovery Committee should include local representatives of participating agencies (government and non government) who have the ability to provide specific services required in the recovery process. LOCAL COMMUNITY CONSULTATION GROUPS 720. The SERCON, Recovery Committee or Recovery Coordinator may establish Local Community Consultation Groups to enable members of the local community, including people affected by the event and representatives from local organisations, to meet and to provide input and guidance to the recovery process. 721. The Community Consultation Group: 1. Represents the community in the recovery process. 2. Facilitates dialogue between the Recovery Committee/Coordinator and the community to regularly advise on issues of concern.




3. Works with the Recovery Committee/Coordinator and task groups to tackle specific issues. 4. Assists coordination of recovery initiatives undertaken in the community. RECOVERY ACTION PLAN 722. A Recovery Action Plan will be developed by the agreed recovery authority, supported by Emergency Management NSW as required, and completed for all events requiring a formal recovery process. 723. The Recovery Action Plan is unique to each event and guided by the needs of the community. The plan will be responsive to identified needs and in a large event it will cover the four environments (social, infrastructure, economic and natural) and include a recovery service delivery model. ENDING FORMAL RECOVERY OPERTIONS 724. An exit strategy is a systematic plan to achieve the withdrawal of formal recovery assistance. The Recovery Action Plan includes the arrangements for completing outstanding tasks. Withdrawal of formal recovery assistance requires a handover of the activities to agencies that usually have responsibility for those activities, under normal circumstances. EMERGENCY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE 725. NSW has established a range of relief measures designed to address specific needs that may exist within an affected community. These measures are designed to address impacts on: 1. Individuals and households. 2. Small businesses. 3. Primary producers. 4. Local government. 5. Community organisations. 726. Further details of these measures are found on the EmergencyNSW

website.

PUBLIC APPEALS AND DONATIONS 727. Monetary donations are usually the most efficient and effective means for members of the public to support disaster relief efforts. 728. Individual material donations and public appeals should be actively discouraged in favour of donating through existing charitable organisations and systems already in place.




ANNEX A

ABBREVIATIONS ABS

ADF

CBR(N)

DCP

DACC

EMPLAN

EOC

EOCON

EPA

ERM

ICS

ISO31000:2009

LEMC

LEMO

LEOC

LEOCON

LEP

LHD

LO

MRNSW

NSP

RFS

REMC

REMO

REOC

REOCON

SEMC

SEOC

SEOCON

SERCON

SERM ACT

SES

SITREP

SOP

TMC

USAR

VRA

Australian Bureau of Statistics

Australian Defence Force

Chemical, Biological, Radiological (Nuclear)

Development Control Plan

Defence Assistance to the Civil Community

Emergency Management Plan

Emergency Operations Centre (Local, Region or State)

Emergency Operations Controller (Local, Region or State)

Environmental Protection Agency

Emergency Risk Management

Incident Control System

Standards Australia 31000 Risk Management - Principles and Guidelines 2009.

Local Emergency Management Committee

Local Emergency Management Officer

Local Emergency Operations Centre

Local Emergency Operations Controller

Local Environment Plan

Local Health Districts

Liaison Officer

Marine Rescue NSW

Neighbourhood Safer Place

New South Wales Rural Fire Service

Regional Emergency Management Committee

Regional Emergency Management Officer

Regional Emergency Operations Centre

Regional Emergency Operations Controller

State Emergency Management Committee

State Emergency Operations Centre

State Emergency Operations Controller

State Emergency Recovery Controller

State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended).

New South Wales State Emergency Service

Situation Report

Standing Operating Procedure

Transport Management Centre

Urban Search and Rescue

Volunteer Rescue Association of NSW




ANNEX B

DEFINITIONS

NOTE: The definitions used in this plan are sourced from The State Emergency & Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended); other New South Wales legislation, and The Macquarie Dictionary (Second Edition, 1991). Where possible, the reference source is identified as part of the definition (SERM Act ie The State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989, as amended).

Agency means a government agency or a non-government agency. (Source: SERM Act).

Agency Controller in this plan means the operational head of the agency, identified in this plan as the Combat Agency, which has command of the resources of the particular agency.

Casual Volunteer means a person who: (a) assists an accredited rescue unit in carrying out a rescue operation with the consent of the person in charge of the rescue operation; or (b) assists, on his or her own initiative, in a rescue operation or otherwise in response to an emergency in

circumstances in which the assistance was reasonably given. (Source: SERM Act).

Civil Defence means the performance of some or all of the 15 humanitarian tasks intended to protect the civilian population against the dangers and to help it recover from the immediate effects of hostilities, and also to provide the necessary conditions for its survival. (Source: Contained in Article 61 of Protocol 1(1977) additional to the 1949 Geneva Convention).

Combat Agency means the agency identified in EMPlan as the agency primarily responsible for controlling the response to a particular emergency. (Source: SERM Act).

Command in this plan means the direction of members and resources of an agency / organisation in the performance of the agency / organisations roles and tasks. Authority to command is established by legislation or by agreement with the agency / organisation. Command relates to agencies / organisations only, and operates vertically within the agency / organisation.

Community Relations Crisis incidents or emergencies affecting community relations as determined by the Chairperson of the Community Relations Commission in consultation with Community Leaders and Chief Executive Officers of the Community Relations Crisis Management Standing Committee, or as directed by the Premier.

Concept of Operations in this plan refers to the Controller's general idea or notion, given the anticipated problems of the effects of the event, of how the emergency response and recovery operation is to be conducted. It is a statement of the Controller's operational intentions, and may be expressed in terms of stages / phases of the emergency operation.

Control means the overall direction of the activities, agencies or individuals concerned. (Source: SERM Act). Control operates horizontally across all agencies / organisations, functions and individuals. Situations are controlled.

Coordination means the bringing together of agencies and individuals to ensure effective emergency or rescue management, but does not include the control of agencies and individuals by direction. (Source: SERM Act).

Disaster means an occurrence, whether or not due to natural causes, that causes loss of life, injury, distress or danger to persons, or loss of, or damage to, property. (Source: Community Welfare Act, 1987).

Emergency means an emergency due to the actual or imminent occurrence (such as fire, flood, storm, earthquake, explosion, terrorist act, accident, epidemic or warlike action) which: (a) endangers, or threatens to endanger, the safety or health of persons or animals in the State; or (b) destroys or damages, or threatens to destroy or damage, any property in the State, being an emergency,

which requires a significant and coordinated response.




For the purposes of the definition, property in the State includes any part of the environment of the State. Accordingly, a reference in the Act to: (a) threats or danger to property includes a reference to threats or danger to the environment, and (b) protection of property includes a reference to the protection of the environment. (Source: SERM Act).

Emergency Officer means the Commissioner of SES or a person appointed as an Emergency Officer under Section 15 of the State Emergency Service Act. A person may be appointed as an Emergency Officer even if not a member of the State Emergency Service. (Source: SES Act).

Emergency Operations Centre means a centre established at State, Regional or Local level as a centre of communication and as a centre for the coordination of operations and support during an emergency. (Source: SERM Act).

Emergency Risk Management in this plan means the process approved by the State Emergency Management committee and published in the NSW Implementation Guide for Emergency Management Committees.

Emergency Services Officer means a Police Officer, an officer of the NSW Fire Brigades of or above the position of station commander, an officer of the SES of or above the position of unit controller, or the Director, Operations of that Service, a member of the Rural Fire Service of or above the position of deputy captain, or a Regional Emergency Management Officer. (Source: SERM Act).

Emergency Services Organisation means the NSW Police Force, Fire & Rescue NSW, Rural Fire Service, Ambulance Service, State Emergency Service, Volunteer Rescue Association or any other agency which manages or controls an accredited rescue unit (Source: SERM Act).

EMPlan means the New South Wales State Emergency Management Plan. The object of EMPlan is to ensure the coordinated response to emergencies by all agencies having responsibilities and functions in emergencies. (Source: SERM Act).

Essential services for the purposes of the Essential Services Act, 1988, a service is an essential service if it consists of any of the following: (a) the production, supply or distribution of any form of energy, power or fuel or of energy, power or fuel resources; (b) the public transportation of persons or freight: (c) the provision of fire-fighting services; (d) the provision of public health services (including hospital or medical services); (e) the provision of ambulance services; (f) the production, supply or distribution of pharmaceutical products; (g) the provision of garbage, sanitary cleaning or sewerage services; (h) the supply or distribution of water; (i) the conduct of a welfare institution; (j) the conduct of a prison; (k) a service declared to be an essential service under subsection (2); (l) a service comprising the supply of goods or services necessary for providing any service to in (a) - (k).

Functional Area means a category of services involved in the preparations for an emergency, including the following: (a) Agricultural and Animal Services; (b) Communication Services; (c) Energy and Utilities; (d) Engineering Services; (e) Environmental Services; (f) Health Services; (g) Public Information Services; (h) Transport Services; and (i) Welfare Services.




Functional Area Coordinator in this plan means the nominated coordinator of a Functional Area, tasked to coordinate the provision of Functional Area support and resources for emergency response and recovery operations, which, by agreement of Participating and Supporting Organisations within the Functional Area, has the authority to commit the resources of those organisations.

Government Agency means: (a) a government department or administrative office as defined in the Public Sector Management Act 1988; (b) a public authority, being a body (whether incorporated or not) established by or under an Act for a public

purpose, other than: i) the Legislative Council or Legislative Assembly or a committee of either or both of those bodies; or ii) a court or other judicial tribunal;

(c) the NSW Police; (d) a local government council or other local authority; or (e) a member or officer of an agency referred to in paragraphs (a) - (d) or any other person in the service of the

Crown who has statutory functions, other than: i) the Governor, the Lieutenant-Governor or the Administrator of the State; ii) a Minister of the Crown; iii) a Member of the Legislative Council or Legislative Assembly or an officer of that Council or Assembly; or iv) a judicial officer. (Source: SERM Act).

Hazard in this plan means a potential or existing condition that may cause harm to people or damage to property or the environment.

Hazardous Material means anything that, when produced, stored, moved, used or otherwise dealt with without adequate safeguards to prevent it from escaping, may cause injury or death or damage to property. [Source: Fire Brigades Act, 1989 (as amended)].

Hazardous Material Incident means an actual or impending land-based spillage or other escape of hazardous material that causes or threatens to cause injury or death or damage to property. [Source: Fire Brigades Act, 1989 (as amended)].

Incident in this plan means a localised event, either accidental or deliberate, which may result in death or injury, or damage to property, which requires a normal response from an agency, or agencies.

Incident Control System (ICS) means an operations management system using common language and procedures that allows agencies to retain their own command structure. The key principles are management by objectives and span of control using key functions of Control, Operations, Planning and Logistics.

Liaison Officer (LO) In this plan means a person, nominated or appointed by an organisation or functional area, to represent that organisation or functional area at a control centre, emergency operations centre or coordination centre. A liaison officer maintains communications with and conveys directions/requests to their organisation or functional area, and provides advice on the status, capabilities, actions and requirements of their organisation or functional area.

Local Emergency Management Committee means the committee constituted under the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended), for each local government area, and is responsible for the preparation of plans in relation to the prevention of, preparation for, response to and recovery from emergencies in the local government area (Local EMPlan) for which it is constituted. In the exercise of its functions, any such Committee is responsible to the relevant Regional Emergency Management Committee. (Source: SERM Act).

Local Emergency Operations Controller means a Police Officer appointed by the Regional Emergency Operations Controller as the Local Emergency Operations Controller for the Local Government Area.

Local Government Area means an area within the meaning of the Local Government Act 1993 and includes a combined local government area as referred to in section 27 of the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended).




Logistics in this plan means the range of operational activities concerned with supply, handling, transportation, and distribution of materials. Also applies to the transportation of people.

Minister means the Minister for Police and Emergency Services.

Mitigation means measures taken in advance of, or after, a disaster aimed at decreasing or eliminating its impact on society and environment. (Source COAG Review into Natural Disasters in Australia, August 2002).

Natural Disaster a natural disaster is a serious disruption to a community or region, caused by the impact of a naturally occurring rapid onset event that threatens or causes death, injury or damage to property or the environment and which requires significant and coordinated multi-agency and community response. Such serious disruption can be caused by any one, or a combination, of the following natural hazards: bushfire; earthquake; flood; storm; cyclone; storm surge; landslide; tsunami; meteorite strike or tornado. (Source: COAG Review into Natural Disasters in Australia, August 2002).

Non Government Agency means a voluntary organisation or any other private individual or body, other than a government agency. (Source: SERM Act).

Participating Organisation in this plan means the Government Departments, statutory authorities, volunteer organisations and other agencies who have either given formal notice to agency Controllers or Functional Area Coordinators, or have acknowledged to the State Emergency Management Committee, that they are willing to participate in emergency management response and recovery operations under the direction of the Controller of a Combat Agency, or Coordinator of a Functional Area, with the levels of resources or support as appropriate to the emergency operation.

Plan in this plan means a step by step sequence for the conduct of a single or series of connected emergency operations to be carried out simultaneously or in succession. It is usually based upon stated assumptions, and is a promulgated record of a previously agreed set of roles, responsibilities, functions, actions and management arrangements. The designation 'plan' is usually used in preparing for emergency operations well in advance. A plan may be put into effect at a prescribed time, or on signal, and then becomes the basis of the emergency operation order for that emergency operation.

Preparation in relation to an emergency includes arrangements or plans to deal with an emergency or the effects of an emergency. (Source: SERM Act).

Prevention in relation to an emergency includes the identification of hazards, the assessment of threats to life and property and the taking of measures to reduce potential loss to life or property. (Source: SERM Act).

Public Awareness the process of informing the community as to the nature of the hazard and actions needed to save lives and property prior to and in the event of disaster. (Source: COAG Review into Natural Disasters in Australia, August 2002).

Recovery in relation to an emergency includes the process of returning an affected community to its proper level of functioning after an emergency. (Source: SERM Act).

Region the State is divided into such regions as the Minister may determine by order published in the Gazette. Any such order may describe the boundaries of a region by reference to local government areas, maps or otherwise. (Source: SERM Act).

Regional Emergency Management Committee means the committee constituted under the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended), which at regional level is responsible for preparing plans in relation to the prevention of, preparation for, response to and recovery from emergencies in the region (Regional EMPlan) for which it is constituted. In the exercise of its functions, any such Committee is responsible to the State Emergency Management Committee. (Source: SERM Act).

Regional Emergency Operations Controller means the Region Commander of Police appointed by the Commissioner of Police, as the Regional Emergency Operations Controller for the Emergency Management Region.




Relief is the provision of immediate shelter, life support and human needs of persons affected by, or responding to, an emergency. It includes the establishment, management and provision of services to emergency relief or recovery centres. (Source: COAG Review into Natural Disasters in Australia, August 2002).

Rescue means the safe removal of persons or domestic animals from actual or threatened danger of physical harm. (Source: SERM Act).

Rescue Unit means a unit (comprising a group of persons) which carries out rescue operations for the protection of the public or a section of the public. (Source: SERM Act).

Response in relation to an emergency includes the process of combating an emergency and of providing immediate relief for persons affected by an emergency. (Source: SERM Act).

Risk a concept used to describe the likelihood of harmful consequences arising from the interaction of hazards, communities and the environment. (Source: COAG Review into Natural Disasters in Australia, August 2002).

Risk Assessment the process used to determine risk management priorities by evaluating and comparing the level of risk against predetermined standards, target risk levels or other criteria. (Source: COAG Review into Natural Disasters in Australia, August 2002).

Risk Management the systematic application of management policies, procedures and practices to the tasks of identifying, analyzing, evaluating, treating and monitoring risk. (Source: COAG Review into Natural Disasters in Australia, August 2002).

Roads Authority means officers of the Roads and Traffic Authority and Councils authorised under the Roads Act 1993.

Site Control the location from which the Site Controller, agency commanders and functional areas coordinate the emergency. It usually included the relevant Emergency Service Commanders and Functional Area Coordinators and other advisers as required.

Site Controller a police officer appointed by and subject to the direction of an emergency operations controller to be responsible for determining the site, establishing site control and controlling on the ground response to an emergency. Until the Emergency Operations Controller appoints a Site Controller, the Senior Police Office will assume control.

State Disasters Council means the council established by the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended), to advise the Minister on all matters relating to the prevention of, preparation for, response to and recovery from emergencies (including the coordination of the activities of government and non-government agencies in connection with those matters).

State Emergency Management Committee means the committee constituted under the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended), as the principal committee established under this Act for the purposes of emergency management throughout the State, and, in particular, is responsible for emergency planning at State level.

State Emergency Management Structure In this plan the emergency management structure of New South Wales consists of the State, Regional and Local Emergency Management Committees, and established emergency operations centres at state, regional and local levels, which provides for the control and coordination of emergency response and recovery operations by all agencies having responsibilities and functions in emergencies.

State Emergency Operations Controller means the person appointed by the Governor, on the recommendation of the Minister, responsible, in the event of an emergency which affects more than one region, for controlling the allocation of resources in response to the emergency. The State Emergency Operations Controller is to establish and control a State Emergency Operations Centre. (Source: SERM Act).

State of Emergency means a state of emergency declared by the Premier under Section 33(1) of the State Emergency & Rescue Management Act, 1989 (as amended). NOTE: Other NSW legislation also provides for a declaration of an emergency, which have different meanings and different authorities within that specific legislation - The Essential Services Act, 1988; Dam Safety Act, 1978; and Rural Fires Act, 1997 (as amended).




State Waters means: (a) the territorial sea adjacent to the State; (b) the sea on the landward side of the territorial sea adjacent to the State that is not within the limits of the State; (c) other waters within the limits of the State prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this definition: The Act provides that State waters consist of the territorial sea from the low water mark seaward for 3 nautical miles as well as those waters prescribed by the Marine Pollution Regulation. The Regulation prescribes the following ports as being State Waters (north to south) – Yamba, Newcastle, Sydney, Botany Bay, Port Kembla, Eden

Sub Plan in this plan means an action plan required for a specific hazard, critical task or special event. It is prepared when the management arrangements necessary to deal with the effects of the hazard, or the critical task or special event differ from the general coordination arrangements set out in the main or supporting plans for the area.

Supporting Organisation in this plan means the Government Departments, statutory authorities, volunteer organisations and other specialist agencies who have indicated a willingness to participate and provide specialist support resources to a Combat Agency Controller or Functional Area Coordinator during emergency operations.

Supporting Plan in this plan means a plan prepared by an agency / organisation or functional area, which describes the support which is to be provided to the controlling or coordinating authority during emergency operations. It is an action plan which describes how the agency / organisation or functional area is to be coordinated in order to fulfill the roles and responsibilities allocated.

Terrorist Act is an act or threat, intended to advance a political, ideological or religious cause by coercing or intimidating an Australian or foreign government or the public, by causing serious harm to people or property, creating a serious risk of health and safety to the public, disrupting trade, critical infrastructure or electronic systems. (Source: Criminal Code Act 1995 [Commonwealth]).

Victim means a sufferer from any destructive, injurious, or adverse action or agency [Macquarie Dictionary – 2nd Edition]. In this plan it means a person adversely affected by an emergency.

Vulnerability means the degree of susceptibility and resilience of the community and environment to hazards. (Source: COAG Review into Natural Disasters in Australia, August 2002).

Welfare Services means the services provided to assist in the relief of personal hardship and distress to individuals, families and communities who are victims of an emergency. (Source: Community Welfare Act 1987).




ANNEX C

ISO31000:2009 RISK MANAGEMENT MODEL

Fig 1 - The Risk Management Framework

Fig 2 - Risk Management Process




ANNEX D

LGA AREA AND POPULATION DATA Population and average growth rate data obtained from Internet sources on 31st July 2012.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

(sq kms) POPULATION ESTIMATE *

ESTIMATED ANNUAL GROWTH %p.a. *

Ballina Shire Council 485 40753 0.7%

Bellingen Shire Council 1602 12886 0.1%

Byron Shire Council 567 30825 0.4%

Clarence Valley Council 10441 51252 0.5%

Coffs Harbour City Council 1175 70933 1.2%

Gloucester Shire Council 2952 4974 0.1%

Great Lakes Shire Council 3376 35601 1.0%

Greater Taree City Council 3732 47955 0.7%

Kempsey Shire Council 3379 29118 0.6%

Kyogle Shire Council 3589 9537 -0.3%

Lismore City Council 1290 44282 0.3%

Nambucca Shire Council 1493 19286 0.6%

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council 3686 74949 1.4%

Richmond Valley Council 3051 22697 0.7%

Tweed Shire Council 1309 88463 1.7%

Lord Howe Island Board * Permanent Residents

14 347 0%

North Coast EM Region (Totals) 42141 583858 0.65% (average)

Data obtained from 2011 Regional Population Growth – www.abs.gov.au/ausstats




ANNEX E

EMERGENCY SERVICES AND FUNCTIONAL AREAS PARTICIPATING AND SUPPORTING ORGANISATIONS

EMERGENCY SERVICES

EMERGENCY SERVICE

CONTROLLER/ COORDINATOR

PARTICIPATING ORGANISATIONS

SUPPORTING ORGANISATIONS

Ambulance Service of NSW Deputy Director Operations, North Coast Sector

• Hunter New England Local Health District

• Mid North Coast Local Health District

• Northern NSW Local Health District

• Care Flight Helicopter Services

• Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Services

• CHC Helicopter Services

• St John Ambulance Brigade

Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association

Commodore NNSW • Kingscliff Coast Guard • NSW Police Marine Area Command

• Marine Rescue NSW • Surf Lifesaving NSW • VRA Marine Groups

Fire & Rescue NSW Area Commander Region North

• Rural Fire Service • State Forests of NSW • National Parks and Wildlife

Service • All Local Govt Councils • EPA • State Emergency Service

• Workcover Authority • Westpac Life Saver

Rescue Helicopter Service

NSW Police Force Region Commander Northern Region

• All Emergency Services • All Functional Areas • Accredited Rescue Units

• Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service

• Local Funeral Directors

• Marine Area Command • Volunteer Rescue

Association • State Coroner Disaster Victim Registration • Support Agencies from

the Welfare Services Functional Area as appropriate

http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/default�

http://www.nrhelirescue.com.au/�









EMERGENCY SERVICE




NSW Police Force (con’t) Region Commander Northern Region (con’t)

• Support from a Combat Agency, Functional Areas or other organisations as necessary

Victim Enquiry Centre Operation • Australian Red Cross NSW Disaster Victim Identification • NSW Institute of Forensic

Medicine • NSW Health

Marine Rescue NSW Region Coordinators • Northern Rivers • Mid North Coast

• MRNSW Point Danger • MRNSW Brunswick • MRNSW Cape Byron • MRNSW Ballina • MRNSW Evans Head • MRNSW Iluka Yamba • MRNSW Wooli • MRNSW Woolgoolga • MRNSW Coffs Harbour • MRNSW Nambucca • MRNSW Trial Bay • MRNSW Port Macquarie • MRNSW Camden Haven • MRNSW Crowdy Harrington • MRNSW Forster Tuncurry

• Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association

• NSW Police Marine Area Command

• Surf Lifesaving NSW • VRA Marine Group • Westpac Life Saver


NSW Rural Fire Service RFS Region/Zone/Team/ District Managers

• NSW Rural Fire Service • Fire & Rescue NSW • Forests NSW • National Parks and Wildlife

Service • EPA • All Local Govt Councils

• Private plant and aircraft operators

• Workcover Authority • Westpac Life Saver



Region Controllers • Richmond Tweed, • Clarence Nambucca • Mid North Coast

• All Emergency Services • All Functional Areas • All Local Govt Councils.

• Private Plant and Aircraft • Surf Lifesaving NSW

Surf Life Saving NSW Branch Directors of Lifesaving

• Australian Lifeguard Service

• Australian Professional Ocean Lifeguard Association

• Surf Lifesaving Clubs • Westpac Life Saver Rescue

Helicopter Service

• Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association

• NSW Police Marine Area Command

• Marine Rescue NSW • VRA Marine Groups




EMERGENCY SERVICE




Volunteer Rescue Association of NSW

VRA Region Coordinators • Northern Rivers • Mid North Coast

Land • Brunswick Valley Rescue

Squad • Bulahdelah Rescue Squad • Casino Rescue Squad • Nambucca District Rescue

Squad • Nymboida Wilderness

Rescue • Taree Rescue Squad • Tweed District Rescue

Squad Marine • Tweed Coast Sea Rescue

• Specialist Affiliated Squads & Organisations

• The Federation of Bushwalking Clubs Search and Rescue Group

• The Caves Rescue Squad • The Wireless Institute

Civil Emergency Network (WICEN)

• Citizen's Radio Emergency Service Teams (CREST)

FUNCTIONAL AREAS

FUNCTIONAL AREA

COORDINATING AGENCY/OFFICER



Agricultural and Animal Services


• Australian Seabird Rescue • Dept of Public Works • EPA • RSPCA • National Parks & • Wildlife Service • State Council of Rural

Lands Protection Boards • NSW Farmers' Association • Royal Society for the

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA)

• Wildlife Information & Rescue Service (WIRES)

• Animal Welfare League • Local Government

Association of NSW • Shires Association of NSW • Equestrian NSW • Dogs NSW • Game Council of NSW • NSW Apiarist Association

• Animal Welfare League • Workcover Authority • All Local Govt Councils • Australian Quarantine

Inspection Service (AQIS) • Australian Wildlife

Ambulance Rescue Emergencies (AWARE)

• Horse Rescue Australia • Royal NSW Canine

Council • Australian Veterinary

Association (NSW Division)

• Australian Chicken Meat Federation

• Australian Egg Corporation Limited

• Pet Industry Australia • Animal Welfare Advisory

Council • Native Animal Trust Fund • NSW Food Authority • NSW Fauna and Marine

Park Association

http://www.nsw.wicen.org.au/�

http://www.dpws.nsw.gov.au/Home.htm�

http://www.rspcansw.org.au/rspca-branches.htm�

http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/�

http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/�

http://www.animalwelfareleague.com.au/�






FUNCTIONAL AREA




Energy & Utility Services Energy Branch Industry & Investment NSW

• Elgas Limited • Energy Australia • Essential Energy • Local Councils • Mid Coast Water • NSW Police Force • NSW Public Works • Petroleum & LPG Suppliers • RailCorp • Rous Water Supply • TransGrid

Engineering Services NSW Public Works • All Local Govt Councils • Australian Rail Track Corp • Dept Of Services • Dept of Water • Essential Energy • Industry and Investment

NSW • Mid Coast Water • NSW Procurement • Office of Environment &

Heritage • Ports Authorities • Rail Corp • Roads & Maritime Services • Rous Water • Forests NSW

• Association of Consulting Engineers Australia

• Australian Earthmovers and Roadmakers Federation (NSW Branch)

• Department of Local Government

• Institution of Engineers Australia

• Private plant equipment owners

• Workcover Authority

Environmental Services

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

• Australian Rail Track Corp • Dept of Public Works • Fire & Rescue NSW • Local Councils • Mid Coast Water • NSW Rural Fire Service • RailCorp • Roads & Maritime Services • Rous Water • Sydney Ports Corporation • WorkCover Authority

• Department of Local Government

• Department of Planning • Local Government

Association of NSW • NSW Ministry for Health • NSW Road Transport

Association Incorporated • Private Plant Operators • Shires Association of NSW

Health Services • Hunter New England Local Health District

• Mid North Coast Local Health District

• Northern NSW Local Health District

• Ambulance Service of NSW • Australian Red Cross Blood

Service • St John Ambulance

Australia

• Aged Care Facilities • General Practitioners • Local Government

Councils • Nursing Homes • Private Hospitals • Public Hospitals

http://www.clarence.nsw.gov.au/ncwater/about/�

http://rouswater.protectedsite.net/�

http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/default�

http://www.railcorp.nsw.gov.au/�

http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/�

http://rouswater.protectedsite.net/�




FUNCTIONAL AREA




Public Information Services NSW Police Force Media Unit

• Ambulance Service of NSW • Department of Community

Services • Department of Primary

Industries • Department of Services • EPA • Fire and Rescue NSW • NSW Ministry of Health • New South Wales Police • NSW Rural Fire Service • Premier's Media Unit • State Emergency Service • Transport for NSW

• Australian Broadcasting Corporation

• Federation of Australian Commercial Television Stations

• Federation of Australian Radio Broadcasters

• New South Wales Newspapers

Telecommunications Services

NSW Telco Authority • AAPT • NSW Department of

Finance and Services • SEMC Member Agencies • Sing Tel Optus • Telstra Corporation • Vodafone Australia • Other service providers

• Australian Communications and Media Authority

Transport Services Transport for NSW • Australian Rail Track Corp • Bus NSW • NSW Taxi Council • RailCorp • Roads & Maritime Services • Roads and Traffic Authority • Transport for NSW

• Aircraft Operators • Bus Operators • Private Courier Services • Private Road Transport

Companies • Taxi Operators

Welfare Services Dept of Family and Community Services

• ADRA • Anglicare • Australian Red Cross • Dept of Education &

Communities • Dept of Family and

Community Services • Hunter New England Local

Health District • Mid North Coast Local

Health District • North Coast Area Health

Service • Salvation Army

• Ageing, Disability and Home Care

• Centrelink • Country Womens

Association • Housing NSW • NSW Dept of Primary

Industries • Uniting Church

http://www.railcorp.nsw.gov.au/�

http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/�




ANNEX F1

SUB PLANS TO THE NORTH COAST REGIONAL EMPLAN

SUB PLAN TITLE OFFICER RESPONSIBLE AGENCY RESPONSIBLE PLAN STATUS

CLARENCE NAMBUCCA DIVISION FLOOD PLAN

Clarence Nambucca Region Controller


OXLEY DIVISION FLOOD PLAN

(Includes Lord Howe Island)

Mid North Coast Region Controller


RICHMOND TWEED DIVISION FLOOD PLAN

Richmond Tweed Region Controller


1994

BUSHFIRE OPERATIONS PLAN Region Manager Rural Fire Service




ANNEX F2

SUPPORTING PLANS TO THE NORTH COAST REGIONAL EMPLAN

PLAN TITLE OFFICER RESPONSIBLE COORDINATING AGENCY PLAN STATUS

Hunter New England Healthplan

Director of Nursing and Midwifery

Hunter New England Local Health District

Approved & Endorsed 2009

Mid North Coast Disaster Welfare Supporting Plan

Functional Area Coordinator

NSW Dept of Community Services

Approved & Endorsed

Date unknown

Mid North Coast Engineering Services Supporting Plan

Project Manager / DESFAC

NSW Public Works Approved & Endorsed

2008

Mid North Coast Transport Services Supporting Plan

Region Manager Northern Region

NSW Ministry of Transport Approved & Endorsed

2004

North Coast Area Health Services Supporting Plan

Director of Nursing and Midwifery

North Coast Area Health Service

Approved & Endorsed

2009

Northern Rivers Agricultural & Animal Services Supporting Plan

Far North Coast Regional Director, Dept of Primary Industry


Approved & Endorsed

1997

Northern Rivers Disaster Welfare Supporting Plan

Functional Area Coordinator

NSW Dept of Community Services

Approved & Endorsed

Date unknown

Northern Rivers Engineering Services Supporting Plan

Project Manager / DESFAC

NSW Public Works Approved & Endorsed

2008

Northern Rivers Transport Services Supporting Plan

Region Manager Northern Region

NSW Ministry of Transport Approved & Endorsed

2004




ANNEX F3

LOCAL DISASTER PLANS

TITLE PLAN STATUS LAST REVIEWED

Ballina Shire A E 2012

Byron Shire A E 2009

Clarence Valley A E 2012

Coffs Harbour City and Bellingen Shire A E 2012

Gloucester Shire A E 2010

Great Lakes Shire A E 2005

Greater Taree City A E 2012

Kempsey Shire A E 2012

Kyogle Shire A E 2013

Lismore City A E 2009

Nambucca Shire A E 2012

Port Macquarie-Hastings A E 2007

Richmond Valley A E 2010

Tweed Shire A E 2007

Lord Howe Island DRAFT 2007

A = Approved by LEMC E = Endorsed by REMC




ANNEX G1

PUBLIC WARNING MESSAGES GUIDE TO THE CONTENT OF TV CRAWL EVACUATION MESSAGES

(LIMIT TO APPROXIMATELY 25 WORDS)

URGENT _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ MESSAGE (Insert name of relevant agency)

RESIDENTS OF _ _ _ _ (town / suburb / locality) _ _ _ _IN _ _ _ _ (street /

Road / etc) _ _ _ _ MUST EVACUATE THEIR HOMES IMMEDIATELY DUE

TO _ _ _ _ (insert details of reasons for evacuation) _ _ _ _ .

RESIDENTS TO PROCEED TO EVACUATION CENTRE/S AT _ _ _ _

(insert location) _ _ _ _.

FOR ASSISTANCE PHONE _ _ _ _ (insert appropriate

number) _ _ _ _ .




ANNEX G2

PUBLIC WARNING MESSAGES GUIDE TO THE CONTENT OF VOICE ANNOUNCEMENT MESSAGES 1. This is a/an _ _ _(Insert type of warning) _ _ _ warning issued by _ _ _ (Insert

name / title) _ _ _ at _ _ _ (insert time of issue). _ _ _ . 2. Description of what has happened.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (Insert details) 3. Description of the area to which the warning applies.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (Insert details) 4. Actions to be taken:

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (Insert details of the actions to be taken by residents.

If evacuation is required, details to include:

* security of premises

* location of and route to evacuation centre

* arrangements for those without transport 5. Phone number for confirmation of details of the warning message.

Council Information Centre, _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ; or

Police Station _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ; or

Other as appropriate _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ .




ANNEX H1

CONTROL & COORDINATION RELATIONSHIPS

TYPE OF OPERATION CONTROL PLANNING INFORMATION /

LIAISON COMBAT AGENCY MANAGED OPERATIONS

• Combat Agency

controls operation and may request other agencies or Emergency Operations Controller to coordinate some or all support.

• Supporting agencies command their own elements and carry out support tasks as directed by the Combat Agency, other agency or Emergency Operations Controller.

• Support tasks which

can be foreseen are agreed to and reflected in Combat Agency Plans, EMPlans, Sub Plans or Supporting Plans where applicable.

• Unforeseen support can be coordinated by the Emergency Operations Controller, or the Combat Agency can deal direct with the supporting agencies. In the latter case the Emergency Operations Controller must be kept informed.

• The Combat Agency is

responsible to ensure that the Emergency Operations Controller, supporting emergency service organisation and functional area coordinators are kept informed of the situation.

• Emergency Operations Controllers and supporting agencies, under the control of the Combat Agency, provide resources to the Combat Agency Control Centre as required.

• Supporting agencies carrying out tasks under the coordination of an Emergency Operations Controller provide liaison to the Emergency Operations Centre as required.

OPERATIONS CONTROLLED BY EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CONTROLLERS This applies when: • Emergency Operations

Controllers are designated in plans as Controllers.

• There is no designated Combat Agency.

• Emergency Operations Controllers are requested by the Combat Agency to assume control, with the approval of the Combat Agency head.

• Emergency Operations Controller controls operations and coordinates resources.

• Individual agencies command their own resources and carry out tasks as directed.

• An Emergency Operations Controller may request other agency to coordinate support.

• The Emergency Operations

Controller is responsible to ensure that the emergency service organisations and functional area coordinators are kept informed of the situation.

• Agencies provide liaison to Emergency Operations Centre as required.




ANNEX H2

Combat Agency Managed Operation Support Resources managed by an EOCON




ANNEX H3

Emergency Operations Controlled by the EOCON




ANNEX I

REGION CONTROL AND COORDINATION CENTRES REGION CONTROL AND COORDINATION CENTRES

AMBULANCE SERVICE OF NSW

Details are for restricted distribution. Contact Deputy Director Operations for details.

FIRE & RESCUE NSW

Details are for restricted distribution. Contact Zone Commander for details.

NSW POLICE FORCE

Details are for restricted distribution. Cont ct Northern Region Operations Manager for details.

RURAL FIRE SERVICE

Details are for restricted distribution. Contact Region Manager for details.

NSW STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE

Details are for restricted distribution. Contact Relevant Region Controller for details.

AGRICULTURAL AND ANIMAL SERVICES

Details are for restricted distribution. Contact Functional Area Coordinator for details.

(Local Disease Control Centre location to be advised at time of declaration of an exotic animal or plant disease emergency).

ENGINEERING SERVICES


ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES


HEALTH SERVICES


PUBLIC INFORMATION SERVICES

Media Services will be coordinated from Combat Agency Control Centres, or the Regional Emergency Operations Centre depending on the type of emergency.

TRANSPORT SERVICES


WELFARE SERVICES





ANNEX J

COMMONWEALTH AND AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ASSISTANCE ARRANGEMENTS

(UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2012) COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT 1. Prime responsibility for the protection of life, property and the environment rests with the

States and Territories. However, the Australian Government is committed to supporting States and Territories in developing their capacity for dealing with emergencies and disasters, and provides physical assistance to requesting States or Territories when they cannot reasonably cope during an emergency.

2. State and Territory authorities have a constitutional responsibility, within their boundaries, for coordinating and planning for the response to disasters and emergencies. When the total resources (government, community and commercial) of an affected State or Territory cannot reasonably cope with the needs of the situation, the State or Territory government can seek assistance from the Commonwealth Government.

3. There are a number of mechanisms through which the Commonwealth Government may provide support to the states and territories during a crisis. This may be through the different Commonwealth Agencies which play an important role, such as the Bureau of Meteorology. Other assistance, both physical and financial, is generally provided on the request of the affected State and/or Territory. The Commonwealth Government may also provide financial and other assistance directly to individuals affected by an emergency.

4. The Commonwealth is also responsible for a number of national plans. The Commonwealth Disaster Response Plan (COMDISPLAN) details the co-ordination arrangements for the provision of Australian Government assistance in the event of a disaster or emergency in Australia or its offshore territories, regardless of the cause.

5. State or Territory Governments may call upon the Commonwealth Government for assistance. Each State and Territory has an authorised officer empowered to request assistance from the Commonwealth Government.

6. All requests for Commonwealth Government assistance are made to The Attorney General’s Department (AGD), which is the primary agency responsible for the management of the COMDISPLAN which comprises the Crisis Coordination Centre and Emergency Management Australia.




AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE 7. There are two distinct types of Defence assistance provided to civil authorities and

organisations, namely: a. Defence Assistance to the Civil Community (DACC). b. Defence Force Aid to the Civilian Authorities (DFACA). 8. The characteristics of DACC Emergency assistance categories are as per the Defence

Instructions (General) OPS 05–1 - Defence Assistance to the Civil Community-policy and procedures AL9 Dated 16 March 2004 and are as follows:

a. Category 1— emergency assistance for a specific task(s) provided by the Senior Australian Defence Force Officers (SADFO)/Unit Commander / Administrator, from within their allocated resources, in localised emergency situations where immediate action is necessary to save human life, alleviate suffering, prevent extensive loss of animal life or prevent widespread loss and damage to property. Duration of assistance shall normally not exceed 48 hours (DACC 1).

b. Category 2—emergency assistance, beyond that provided under DACC 1, during a more extensive or continuing disaster response directly related to saving human life or alleviating human suffering or preventing the loss or damage to property when State/Territory resources are inadequate. This may include short term recovery activities during the transfer of tasks to local and state recovery agencies in the immediate aftermath of an emergency. Duration of assistance shall depend on nature, scope of emergency and available resources (DACC 2).

c. Category 3—emergency assistance associated with recovery from a civil emergency or disaster, which is not directly related to the saving of life or property that involves longer term significant recovery activity, such as reconstruction of the physical infrastructure and the restoration of emotional, social, economic and physical wellbeing. Duration of assistance shall depend on nature, scope of recovery effort and available resources (DACC 3).

9. Approving Authorities for each Emergency DACC categories are: a. Category 1—Local emergency assistance. DACC Category 1 can be authorised by

SADFO, Unit Commander or Administrators where support can be provided from within their own resources in localised emergency situations not normally exceeding 48 hours duration. Authorising officers are to inform their Service Headquarters, the Headquarters Joint Operations Command (HQJOC) Joint Control Centre and the regional Joint Operations Support Staff (JOSS) when committing Defence resources to a Category 1 task. HQJOC in consultation with Service Headquarters and JOSS to review DACC 1 assistance before the expiration of 48 hours. Cost recovery is not sought for this category of DACC.

b. Category 2—Significant emergency assistance. DACC Category 2 can only be authorised by the Chief of the Defence Force (CDF) or Minister for Defence (MINDEF). HQJOC will coordinate Category 2 tasks supported by local and regional coordination by the JOSS.




HQJOC will liaise with Military Strategic Commitments (MSC) to seek the approval of the CDF or MINDEF to provide the assistance requested. The duration of DACC 2 assistance shall depend on the nature, scope of emergency and available resources. Cost recovery is not sought for this category of DACC.

c. Category 3—Emergency recovery assistance. DACC Category 3 can only be authorised by MINDEF. HQJOC will coordinate Category 3 tasks. HQJOC will liaise with MSC to seek the approval of the MINDEF to provide the assistance sought. Duration of DACC 3 assistance shall depend on the nature, scope of recovery effort and available resource. Full cost recovery is to be sought for this category of DACC unless a cost recovery waiver is approved by the delegate as authorised in reference C.

JOINT OPERATIONS SUPPORT STAFF - NSW 10. As the key liaison facilitator between the ADF, Local Government and State and

Commonwealth Emergency Management agencies in NSW, JOSS NSW engages with Local Government and a wide range of Emergency Management professionals in order to establish and maintain a comprehensive liaison structure at the Local, Regional and State level for Emergency Management, with intent to provide early warning to key ADF stakeholders in the event of an emergency.

11. This liaison is primarily achieved at the regional level by an appointed ADF Liaison Officer (ADFLO). These are members of JOSS NSW, who have a primary role in a specialised appointment and are also appointed as an ADFLO when required. Each ADFLO is required to undertake mandatory training such as the Joint Operations Support Staff Induction and Professional Development Course before assuming an Emergency Management role and responsibilities as an ADFLO.

12. ADFLOs may deploy to the State Emergency Operations Centre or equivalent, Regional and/or Local Emergency Operations Centre, which will be coordinated by the Manager JOSS.




ANNEX K

AUTHORITY TO CLOSE ROADS INDIVIDUAL OR ORGANISATION CIRCUMSTANCES AUTHORITY

The Minister for Emergency Services, or an Emergency Services Officer when authorised by the Minister.

During a State of Emergency declared under the SERM Act and if satisfied that it is necessary or convenient.

Direct a person not to enter an emergency area or part of it, including doing all such things as are reasonably necessary to ensure compliance, including the use of reasonable force. s37 SERM Act

During a State of Emergency declared under the SERM Act and if satisfied there are reasonable grounds for doing so for the purpose of protecting property.

Direct the closure of traffic on any street, road, lane, thoroughfare or footpath or place open to or used by the public; and/or the closure of any public or private place. S37A SERM Act

A Senior Police Officer (ie of or above the rank of Sergeant).

If satisfied there are reasonable grounds for doing so for the purpose of protecting persons from injury or death threatened by an actual or imminent emergency.

Direct, or authorise another Police Officer to direct, a person not to enter a danger area, including doing all such things as are reasonably necessary to ensure compliance, including use of reasonable force. s60L SERM Act

A Senior Police Officer (ie of or above the rank of Sergeant).

If satisfied there are reasonable grounds for doing so for the purpose of protecting persons from injury or death or protecting property threatened by an actual or imminent emergency.

Direct, or authorise another Police Officer to direct the closure of traffic on any street, road, lane, thoroughfare or footpath or place

Police Officer Where directed or authorised by a senior police officer (ie of or above the rank of Sergeant).

Direct a person not to enter a danger area, including doing all such things as are reasonably necessary to ensure compliance, including use of reasonable force. s60L SERM Act Direct the closure of traffic on any street, road, lane, thoroughfare or footpath or place open to or used by the public; and/ or the closure of any public or private place. s61 SERM Act




INDIVIDUAL OR ORGANISATION CIRCUMSTANCES AUTHORITY

Police Officer

Powers to stop vehicles and erect road blocks.

Written record must be made if not already authorised in writing. Remains in effect for 6 hours. s37 LEPRA

Police may temporarily close a road or road related area to traffic.

Temporary obstruction or danger to traffic. s186 LEPRA

Where persons or property endangered by fire or hazardous materials incident.

Recognise the authority of, and support the Commissioner and members of Fire & Rescue NSW acting under the Commissioners orders; and officer in charge at a fire or hazardous materials incident. S25 Fire Brigades Act

Protect people from injury or death, or property from damage, when the persons are, or the property is, endangered by fire or imminent danger of such fire.

Recognise and support the authority of, and assist the Commissioner of the Rural Fire Service and any member of a Rural Fire Brigade or Fire Control Officer acting under the Commissioners direction. s41 Rural Fires Act

The Fire Brigades Officer in charge at a fire or hazardous materials incident.

Protect and save life and property. Control and extinguish fire. Confine and end hazardous material incident and render site safe.

Take such measures as officer thinks fit including close to traffic any street or public place in the vicinity. s13-14 Fire Brigades Act

The Commissioner of the Rural Fire Service, or an officer of a Rural Fire Brigade of a rank designated by the Commissioner; and Fire Control Officers.

To protect persons or property or to control or suppress an existing or imminent danger arising out of a fire, incident or emergency.

Any action authorised by or under the Rural Fires Act. s22, 24, 27 38 & 44 Rural Fires Act Does not apply to land or property vested in, or under the control of Railcorp or ARTC, unless permission has been granted.

The Commissioner of the State Emergency Service, or an Emergency Officer when authorised by the Commissioner.

Emergency related to flood or storm and tempest; or when directed by SEOCON.

Direct a person not to enter an emergency area or part of it, including doing all such things as are reasonably necessary to ensure compliance, including use of reasonable force. s22 State Emergency Service Act




INDIVIDUAL OR ORGANISATION CIRCUMSTANCES AUTHORITY

Police Officers and all members of emergency service organisations.

Emergency related to flood or storm and tempest; or when directed by SEOCON.

Recognise the authority of, and assist the Commissioner of SES and Emergency Officers acting under orders of the Commissioner, Region Controller or Local Controller. s21 State Emergency Service Act

A Road Authority (includes Roads and Maritime Services and Councils)

Road Authorities for the purpose of protecting roads from damage, protecting the public from hazards or protecting vehicles or property from damage. Roads and Maritime Services for any other purpose.

Regulate traffic on public roads by means of barriers or notices. s115 Roads Act

The Minister for Primary Industries

Within quarantine or protected area to prevent or regulate the movement of stock or vehicles.

Close any road or authorise the erection of fencing or gates across any road s12, s15B, s23 Stock Diseases Act

Department of Primary Industries During an exotic disease outbreak. Declare entry and exit points. S13 Exotic Diseases of Animals Act

Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife Service (including Police Officers as ex-officio Rangers)

Within any Park (as defined).

Close the whole or any part and regulate, control or prohibit entry of any person; and/or close to public traffic any road, track, trail or other way. s16, s155 National Parks and Wildlife Act




ANNEX L

STATE AND REGIONAL ROADS




ANNEX M

CONTACT LIST

NORTH COAST REGIONAL EMERGENY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE (as at September 2012)

Position/Agency Phone Number Address REOCON 02 4929 0688 Newcastle Ambulance Service of NSW 02 5622 8100 Coffs Harbour Fire and Rescue NSW 026652 5641 Coffs Harbour Marine Rescue NSW 02 8071 4848 Sydney NSW Police Force 02 6626 0799 Lismore NSW Rural Fire Service 02 6643 2512 Grafton NSW State Emergency Service 02 6641 6900 Grafton Volunteer Rescue Association 1300 872 777 Casino Agricultural & Animal Services FA 02 6626 1200 Wollongbar Engineering Services FA 02 6626 5600 Lismore Environmental Services FA 02 6641 1500 Grafton Health Services FA 07 5506 7884 Tweed Heads Transport Services FA 02 6648 7231 Coffs Harbour Welfare FA 02 6686 6699 Ballina Ballina LEMC 02 6686 4444 Ballina

Bellingen/Coffs LEMC 02 6655 7300 Bellingen 02 6648 4000 Coffs Harbour

Byron LEMC 02 6685 9300 Byron Bay Clarence Valley LEMC 02 6643 0200 Grafton Gloucester LEMC 02 6538 5250 Gloucester

Manning Great Lakes LEMC 02 6591 7222 Forster 02 6592 5399 Taree

Kempsey LEMC 02 6566 3200 Kempsey Kyogle LEMC 02 6632 1611 Kyogle Lismore City LEMC 02 6625 0500 Goonellabah Nambucca LEMC 02 6568 2555 Macksville Port Macquarie Hastings LEMC 02 6581 8111 Port Macquarie Richmond Valley LEMC 02 6660 0300 Casino Tweed LEMC 02 6670 2400 Murwillumbah Lord Howe Island LEMC 02 6563 2066 Lord Howe Island Coffs Clarence LEOCON 02 6652 0299 Coffs Harbour Manning Great Lakes LEOCON 02 6555 1299 Forster Mid North Coast LEOCON 02 6583 0199 Port Macquarie Richmond LEOCON 02 6626 0799 Lismore Tweed Byron LEOCON 07 5536 0999 Tweed Heads




RESTRICTED ANNEX N

LOCAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRES

RESTRICTED ANNEX




RESTRICTED ANNEX O

REGIONAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE LOCATIONS

RESTRICTED ANNEX




RESTRICTED ANNEX P

DETAILED CONTACT LIST

RESTRICTED ANNEX

interim north coast regional emergency ......2013/12/01 · the plan describes the arrangements at...

Documents