LGAT Submission – Fire and Emergency Services Act Reform 2023
Our submission discusses the proposed funding models and recognises the sector’s concern regarding the increased administrative burden on council staff and the financial impact it would have on property owners. We’ve outlined the key issues and considerations that the Tasmanian Government needs to reflect upon when developing a future levy model.
Our sector recognises that volunteers play an essential role in responding to incidents and supporting community events. While councils have traditionally supported State Emergency Service Volunteer Units with operational funding, we believe the State Government needs to ensure that increased revenue from the levy is allocated to operational expenses and capital support, replacing the funding currently provided by councils. This centralised funding arrangement should include a transition plan for assets and amendments to the legislative responsibilities of councils.
Given the role local government plays in collecting the levy and supporting communities to prepare for and recover from emergencies, we urge the State Government to ensure there is adequate representation from local government on the proposed State Fire and Emergency Service Committee, along with any future committees that might be established.
We also expressed our overall disappointment with the lack of engagement with the local government sector, which is a key partner in emergency management. However, we now look forward to contributing to the recently announced Fire and Emergency Services Working Group and representing our members during this phase of consultation.