Local Governments in Western Australia play a significant role in emergency management. Both Commonwealth and State Government policy identify Local Government as a key player in community disaster resilience, preparedness and response. Local Government also have statutory obligations for recovery following an emergency affecting their community. 

Local Governments are the closest level of government to their communities and have access to specialised knowledge about the environment and demographic features of their communities.

WALGA works closely with all levels of government and industry groups to ensure Local Governments are represented in emergency management policy matters that affect their communities. Our role is to advocate and make representations on issues of importance to Local Governments by working with our members to lead policy change, prepare useful resources, participate on working and reference groups, advocate with key stakeholders and influence key planning and building legislation and policy changes. 
 

Emergency Management Advocacy Positions

In 2022, WALGA conducted a review of its emergency management positions and prepared a suite of comprehensive policy positions on key issues and matters for the sector based on previous State Council endorsed submissions, recommendations from significant reviews and inquiries, and information and priorities captured in sector-wide consultations. The positions relate to: 

  • Emergency Management Principles
  • State Emergency Management Framework
  • Sustainable Grant Funding
  • Consolidated Emergency Services Act
  • Resource Sharing
  • Lessons Learnt Management
  • Emergency Services Levy
  • Local Government Grants Scheme
  • Expansion of the Community Emergency Services Manager (CESM) Program
  • Management of Bush Fire Brigades
  • Local Emergency Management Arrangements (LEMA)

Download Advocacy Positions Document