Municipal Emergency Management Plan

CITY OF GREATER GEELONG MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 Contents

Part 5 Recovery arrangements – 2015-2017 5.1 General Principles 5-5 5.1.1 Introduction 5-5 5.1.2 Entry into Recovery Service System / Accessing services 5-5 5.1.3 Recovery Definition 5-5 5.1.4 Levels of Recovery 5-6 5.1.5 Scope for MEMPlan 5-6 5.1.6 Principles Underpinning Recovery 5-6 5.1.7 Magnitude of Event & Recovery Process 5-8 5.1.8 Localised Emergencies / Events 5-8 5.1.8.1 Dispersed Population Events 5-8 5.1.9 Authority for Municipal Recovery Planning 5-8 5.1.9.1 Role of Department of Human Services (State Government of Victoria) 5-9 5.1.9.2 Role of City of Greater Geelong 5-9 5.1.9.3 Individual Organisational Plans 5-9 5.1.10 Key concepts of Emergency Recovery Management 5-9 5.1.10.1 Recovery Planning / Preparedness 5-10 5.1.10.2 Coordination Structures 5-10 5.1.10.3 Primary Themes of Recovery 5-10 5.1.10.4 Testing, Evaluation and Review of Plan 5-12 5.2 Provision of Recovery Services 5-13 5.2.1 Council Recovery Services 5-13 5.2.2 Use of Community Networks 5-14 5.2.3 Levels of Recovery Activities 5-15 5.2.4 Activation of the Recovery Plan 5-15 5.2.5 Recovery Coordination after an Event 5-16 5.2.6 Management of Volunteers 5-16 5.2.7 Vulnerable Members / Groups of the Community 5-16 5.2.8 Community Information / Communication 5-17 5.2.9 Community Briefings 5-17 5.2.10 CoGG Levels of Evacuation 5-17 5.2.11 Emergency Relief / Recovery Centres 5-18

Issue Date: Nov 2015 Part 5 - 1 Issue No. & Date: 1 / Nov 2015 CITY OF GREATER GEELONG MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 5.2.12 Evacuations & Registrations Responsibility 5-18 5.3 Recovery Coordination & Responsibilities 5-19 5.3.1 Initial Impact Assessment 5-19 5.3.2 Coordination Structures 5-20 5.3.3 MECC – Coordination across Agencies 5-20 5.3.4 Responsible Council Officers 5-20 5.3.5 Financial Considerations / Resources 5-21 5.3.6 Acquisition & Management 5-21 5.3.6.1 Supply of Goods and Services 5-21 5.3.6.2 Protocol for Requesting Resources 5-22 5.3.6.3 Management of Resources 5-22 5.3.6.4 Control or Lead Agencies for Particular Support 5-22 5.3.7 Service Provision Arrangements in Geelong 5-23 5.3.8 Key Services Provided within Recovery 5-23 5.4 Management of Public Health 5-24 5.4.1 Delegated Responsibility 5-24 5.4.2 City of Greater Geelong Public Health sub plan 5-24 5.4.3 Public Health Plan and Medical Arrangements 5-24 5.4.4 Public Health Sub-Plan – an Overview 5-26 5.4.4.1 Infectious Disease Control 5-27 5.4.4.2 Safety of Water Supplies 5-27 5.4.4.3 Safety of Food Supplies 5-28 5.4.4.4 Safety of Sewage Disposal 5-28 5.4.4.5 Safety of Refuse Disposal 5-29 5.4.4.6 Vermin & Vector Control 5-29 5.4.4.7 Hazardous & Dangerous Substances 5-30 5.4.4.8 Disposal of Dead Animals 5-30 5.5 Asset Recovery Operations 5-31 5.5.1 Role of Council – City Services 5-31 5.5.2 Asset Recovery – Environmental 5-31 5.5.3 Restoring Privately Owned Assets 5-31 5.5.4 Fire and Native Vegetation 5-31 5.5.5 Building Demolitions 5-32 5.5.6 Returning to your Property after a Fire 5-32

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 5.6 Evaluation of Recovery Activities after an Event 5-32 5.7 Long Term Recovery (After an Event) 5-32 5.7.1 Involvement of Affected Community – Community Recovery 5-32 Committees 5-32 5.7.2 Community Recovery Committee Membership 5-32 5.8 Register.Find.Reunite. (formerly National Registration and Inquiry System) 5-33

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017

AMMENDMENT SUMMARY – PART 5

Revision Amendment Change / Reason for Change Number Date 2013–2014 Nov 2013 1. S5.2.1 wording updated (last paragraph) 2. S5.2.2 sentence added / Social Media 3. S5.2.4 wording amended / After Hrs Activation – mobile phone contact preferred 4. S5.2.6 wording amended / role of Volunteering Geelong 5. S5.2.7 wording amended / more detail around vulnerable people/facilities 6. S5.2.8 sentence added / Social Media 7. S5.3.6.4 table updated / Lead Agency table brought up-to-date Oct 2014 1. S5.1.10.3 Primary Themes – slight changes to title and order; addition of Agricultural Environment 2. S5.2.1 reference updated - Emergency Relief Handbook – A Planning Guide 2013 3. S5.2.2 dot point examples of community networks – list expanded 4. 5.2.6 additional wording re MoU between CoGG/Volunteering Geelong 5. S5.2.7 Vulnerable people – bushfire changed to all hazards; and reference to CoGG’s Coord Ancillary Services = VP R Coordinator 6. S5.2.9 Community Briefings – para included about communicating to people with additional needs 7. S5.2.11 ERRCs – words added to clarify role of Red Cross – to register evacuees and advise any of the relevant agencies; Words added to role of relief centre – provision of information and support 8. S5.3.1 wording changed from Post Event Assessment to Initial Impact Assessment 9. S5.3.6.4 Control and Support Agencies (title changed to reflect EMMV); table updates 10. S5.3.7 paragraph added to introduce following table in 5.3.8 11. S5.4.1 removed ref to Municipal Medical Office of Health 12. S 5.4.3 as above 13. S5.6 updated to include the five environments – Social, Built, Economic, Natural, and Agricultural 14. S5.8 NRIS References changed to Register.Find.Reunite. Oct 2015 1. S5.1 Reference to MECC being phased out 2. References updated throughout in line with current Victorian State departments and agencies structure/nomenclature 3. S5.2.6 Management of Volunteers, updated to reflect introduction of MSEVs; and also in tables S5.3.6.4 and S5.3.8

1.1 General Principles 5.1.1 Introduction Emergencies of various scales frequently occur in Victoria. These emergencies vary greatly in terms of the size of the event, the geographic area affected, the nature of the hazard that causes the emergency, and the impacts on the community. These Recovery Arrangements have been developed in accordance with the directions of the Emergency Management Act (1986) and form part of the MEMPlan (Municipal Emergency Management Plan for the City of Greater Geelong). They have been developed to ensure adequate Arrangements are in place to assist those individuals and communities who are affected by emergencies in the Geelong area. MEMPlan documents the strategic framework within emergency management planning as well as identifying roles and responsibilities of various agencies. The Arrangements are part of a broader framework and should be read in conjunction with the other parts of the MEMPlan. Part 3 of this MEMPlan details the planning and management arrangements (preparedness and prevention) process for Emergency Management Planning. The Public Health Sub-Plan (see Section 5.4) forms part of the Recovery Arrangements and should be read in conjunction with this document.

Recovery Management has several components  General Principles  Preparedness Planning  Responsibility/Lead Agencies for provision of services  Recovery actions during and immediately after an event  Long term recovery.

Part 5 retains reference to MECC (5.27 and 5.33) – note that these references should be ignored. MECCs are currently being removed from the Emergency Management Manual Victoria (EMMV) and therefore from Victorian emergency operations.

5.1.2 Entry into Recovery Service System / Accessing services Whenever possible, entry into the recovery management system should occur with a minimum of inconvenience to the affected person.

5.1.3 Recovery Definition The Emergency Management Act (1986) states that recovery is “the assisting of persons and communities affected by emergencies to achieve a proper and effective level of functioning” (Sec. 4A). Recovery from emergencies is a developmental process of assisting individuals and communities to manage the re-establishment of those elements of society necessary for their wellbeing.

The process involves cooperation between all levels of government, non-government organisations, community agencies and the private sector in consideration of:  The emotional, social, spiritual, financial and physical wellbeing of individuals and communities  The restoration of essential and community infrastructure  The rehabilitation of the environment  The revitalisation of the economy of the community to ensure as far as possible that the wellbeing of a community is increased  During recovery, governments and communities work together to assist affected individuals and communities to move towards a healthy, safe and functioning environment.

5.1.4 Levels of Recovery The levels of recovery management are  Municipal  Regional  State  National (Australian Government) MEMPlan explains the municipal recovery Arrangements and framework for Geelong.

5.1.5 Scope for MEMPlan These Arrangements apply to all emergencies, as defined by the Emergency Management Act (1986) that have an impact on the Geelong community. The principles contained within these Arrangements may also be used to support communities affected by events that are not covered by the definition of emergency.

5.1.6 Principles Underpinning Recovery Management of Recovery will occur in the context of clear and agreed Arrangements and involve processes of consultation and cooperation through established communication channels. In reading these Arrangements, it is essential to have an appreciation of the assumptions and accepted understandings that underpin them.

These assumptions and accepted understandings are:  Resilience of individuals and communities is respected Recovery services and programs must acknowledge the inherent resilience that affected individuals and communities display. Individuals, when processing information about the situation and available services, are able to make informed choices about their recovery. Communities, when supported with information and resources, are able to support and manage their own recovery.  Recovery is part of emergency management Recovery is an integral component of the Arrangements that support the whole of emergency management in Geelong. These Arrangements are documented in other places within the MEMPlan document.

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017  Levels of recovery operations Recovery operates at multiple levels. In order to ensure the success of the Arrangements, it is vital that all agencies and organisations involved in management, coordination or service delivery undertake these activities in a cooperative and collaborative manner, within the agreed framework.

 Multi agency cooperation Coordination and communication both at and between the various levels of operation will assist in ensuring the success of recovery activities for the affected community.  Roles of organisations and agencies Recovery is not the exclusive domain of any single agency. All agencies and organisations willing to participate have an important role to play. This recognises that recovery must be a whole-of-government and a whole-of-community process.

The agreed roles and responsibilities of agencies under these Arrangements is contained within this section in Part 5.2 Provision of Recovery Services  Affected Community Involvement Recovery requires the active involvement of the affected community. It is an accepted principle of recovery that the active involvement of the affected community is essential for recovery success. All recovery agencies should seek to engage with the affected community during the development of plans, and must involve the community in the development of recovery activities following an emergency.  Operational plans that support Arrangements All agencies and organisations with agreed roles and responsibilities under the Arrangements must develop internal operational plans that detail the capacity of the agency and strategies that will be employed by the agency to undertake the agreed roles and responsibilities.  Response/Recovery interface Recovery should begin as soon as possible, if not simultaneously with response when an emergency occurs. It is therefore essential to ensure high levels of understanding and cooperation between response coordinators and recovery coordinators at each of the levels of operation. Council’s MERO will keep the MRM informed as to the status of the unfolding event. During the ‘response phase’ of the event, Council’s Municipal Recovery Manager will be proactive in being kept informed of the progress and its impact and when necessary, be the officer that activates the Recovery Team.

5.1.7 Magnitude of Event & Recovery Process This MEMPlan details the Arrangements for emergency recovery within the Municipality.

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 5.1.8 Localised Emergencies/Events Emergencies often occur within a single municipal district. Where this occurs, the Municipal Recovery Arrangements will apply unless the needs of the community exceed the capacity of that Municipal Council to manage the event. This MEMPlan describes Arrangements in place across the Municipality of Geelong.

5.1.8.1 Dispersed Population Events Some events will affect people from a range of geographic areas, who disperse during or after the emergency. This is particularly the case when emergency events occur in industrial, sporting, tourist or commercial environments, and people return to their homes soon after the event. This may include the need to develop strategies, based on each event, to:  Support small numbers of people affected in a specific locality  Target a group of affected people that is not easily defined  Provide assistance outside the normal geographic boundaries of operation  Provide for community input across a broad geographic area. In this type of event, the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) may take the lead in coordinating the access of those affected into recovery services and activities. This coordination may be done at the DHHS regional level or in some instances at the state level. However, the provision of services will still be through local agencies nominated in the municipal emergency management plans. The coordination of access usually involves the provision of a single point of contact for those affected and then referral to the most appropriate local recovery service.

5.1.9 Authority for Municipal Recovery Planning Municipal Councils are required by the Emergency Management Act (1986) to prepare a Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP). This plan details the local Arrangements for the management of recovery activities.

The Municipal Recovery Manager is responsible for the coordination of municipal resources in recovering from emergencies, and has full delegated powers to deploy and manage Council’s resources during emergencies. The Municipal Recovery Manager may delegate duties to provide for effective management of the recovery functions

One of the purposes of this MEMPlan is to identify local resources that can be used to assist individuals and communities affected by emergencies.

5.1.9.1 Role of Department of Health and Human Services (State Government of Victoria) In the recovery process of an emergency, Department of Health and Human Services:  Acts as principal Recovery Planning and Management Agency  Assumes a role of facilitation in developing a coordinated response as appropriate to the circumstances, eg when the incident affects only a

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 few people, but the affected population is dispersed, or the event is of a magnitude which is beyond the resources of the municipally.

5.1.9.2 Role of City of Greater Geelong Municipal Councils are required by the Emergency Management Act (1986) to prepare a Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP). This plan details the local Arrangements for the management of recovery activities. The Municipal Recovery Manager is responsible for the coordination of municipal resources in recovering from emergencies, and has full delegated powers to deploy and manage Council’s resources during emergencies. The City of Greater Geelong has agreed to undertake the following functions during recovery, either by statutory obligation or voluntary actions for the wellbeing of the community:  Restoration of services normally provided by the Municipality  Restoration of Municipal drains, road and bridges  Assessment of dwellings and buildings to ascertain level of safety for approved use  Monitor public health matters  Provide local knowledge to the other recovery agencies  In conjunction with the Department of Health and Human Services and Community Agencies, provide services, information and facilities to assist the community in recovery from an event. This could involve the establishment of a coordination centre. Some of these functions will have begun before recovery officially begins. Although the response will depend on the event, Council Response and Recovery teams have developed standard operating procedures for use during an event.

5.1.9.3 Individual Organisational Plans Although not forming a Sub-Plan of MEMPlan, Individual Agencies involved in Recovery Management are encouraged to develop internal Organisational Plans that detail how they respond to emergencies.

5.1.10 Key concepts of Emergency Recovery Management The responsibility for overall coordination rests with DHHS as the coordination agency for recovery (Emergency Management Act (1986), Sec 17a).

Local Government will have the local knowledge and networks to assist in recovery at a local level.

This section describes some of the key concepts of the recovery Arrangements so that a common understanding is achieved among participating agencies.

5.1.10.1 Recovery Planning/Preparedness Recovery planning is the cornerstone of the recovery Arrangements in Victoria. It is a collaborative process involving consultation with all stakeholders.

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 It is imperative that agencies and organisations involved in the recovery Arrangements develop operation plans to ensure that they are able to fulfil the roles and responsibilities they have agreed to carry out.

5.1.10.2 Coordination Structures  Response and Recovery Interface Response and recovery are usually concurrent activities in the early stages of an emergency event. Recovery activities should begin as soon as practicable when an emergency occurs.

 Education and Training The Department of Health and Human Services has an ongoing commitment to recovery training and education. Part 8 of this document details ‘training and testing’ responsibilities and protocols.

 Media Issues During recovery operations requests for information from the media about coordination and management of recovery activities should be directed to the responsible recovery coordinator at the time.

5.1.10.3 Primary Themes of Recovery There are four key primary areas that require the application of coordination Arrangements as part of the recovery process. These areas focus on the various needs of a community within the:  Social environment  Built environment  Economic environment  Natural environment  Agricultural environment

Social Environment Social health and community impacts refer to the impact that an emergency may have on the health and wellbeing of individuals and the community fabric.

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 Social Environment cont. This functional area includes individual and community needs including but not limited to:  Information provision  Temporary accommodation  Material assistance  Financial assistance  Personal support  Health and medical services  Community development.

Built Environment This primary area refers to the impact that an emergency may have on physical infrastructure. The objective of this functional area of operation is to ensure assets of the community damaged or destroyed during an emergency are re-established or replaced as soon as possible after the emergency. Infrastructure assists individuals and communities in the management of their daily lives, but also forms an important part of community identity. Built environment impacts include, but are not limited to:  Electricity  Gas  Water  Telecommunications  Transport  Roads  Other essential services (such as schools, hospitals, emergency services, banking facilities and shops).

Restoration of critical infrastructure must be undertaken with an awareness of the needs of vulnerable individuals and communities. Recovery planning should address each of these aspects of the functional area and provide for the engagement of agencies that can assist with the recovery.

Economic Environment This area refers to the economic impact that an emergency may have on individuals and communities in an affected geographical area. The economic impact of an emergency is often hidden, and may need a detailed assessment to ascertain both immediate and long-term effects. The objective for this primary area of operations is to ensure that economic wellbeing is re-established and that financial hardships for the affected community are improved.

Economic Environment cont This primary area may include, but is not limited to:  Tourism industry  Small business  Primary producers.

Recovery planning should address each of these aspects of the functional area and provide for the engagement of agencies that can assist with the recovery.

Natural Environment This primary area refers to the environmental impacts that an emergency may have on a geographic area. These impacts include, but are not limited to:  Air quality  Water quality (including catchment management)  Land degradation and contamination  Marine environment  Natural environment (including public lands and national parks).

Recovery planning should address each of these aspects of the functional area and provide for the engagement of agencies that can assist with the recovery. The relevant government department is Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP)>

Agricultural Environment This primary area refers to the agricultural impacts that an emergency may have on a geographic area. These impacts include, but are not limited to:  Welfare of: o Livestock o Companion animals o Wildlife  Loss and damage suffered by primary producers.

Recovery (through Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR)) will focus on supporting the wellbeing of rural communities; revitalising the economy of rural communities; and rehabilitation of productive land and surrounding environment.

5.1.10.4 Testing, Evaluation and Review of Plan Emergency recovery exercises may be conducted in a variety of formats and may test various parts of the Arrangements at different levels of recovery management.

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 There should also be testing of the links between the levels of recovery management. Emergency recovery exercises may be run in conjunction with other emergency management exercises. These are often called Desk Top Exercises – refer to Part 8 of this Plan for additional information on Training and Testing.

5.2 Provision of Recovery Services

The needs of individuals and communities after an emergency will vary in scale and complexity. However, these needs can usually be met by existing services, supplemented by additional resources where there are capacity issues. Recovery planning and management should initially be on the basis of linking affected individuals into existing services provided by existing agencies. These services are documented in 5.2. The recovery activities will depend on:  Type of event  The area affected  Numbers of people affected.

5.2.1 Council Recovery Services The Community Development Department of Council, along with representatives from the Environmental Health Unit form the Emergency Management Recovery Team. Recovery from emergencies is a developmental process of assisting individuals and communities to manage the re-establishment of those elements of society necessary for their wellbeing.

In some cases, it may be necessary to:  Evacuate  Establish a Relief Centre  Establish a Recovery Centre and provide it with resources and/or information.

A decision to establish any of the above will be made in consultation between Municipal Recovery Manager, Combat (Control) Agency and Police Municipal Emergency Response Coordinator, although it will depend on the type, location and extent of emergency. Some possible locations are listed in Part 11, Appendix D of this plan. Once the locality of the appropriate relief centre(s) has been discussed between the MERO and MRM, the MERO will convey the location(s) to the Police MERC. The Recovery Manager shall establish the centre.

In deciding which Emergency Relief Centre(s) (ERCs) are to be activated, the MERO and MRM shall consider:  Location of centre in relation to the site of the emergency  Access to the centre  Size of ERC that is needed – based on anticipated numbers likely to attend  Duration that ERC is to remain operational

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017  Facilities available at the ERC  Security. Note: Emergency Relief Handbook – A Planning Guide 2013, developed in partnership between the Department of Human Services and Red Cross, sets out guidance notes for relief centres. Council’s Recovery Team will use this handbook.

5.2.2 Use of Community Networks Recovery planners, coordinators and managers should always be aware of the value of existing community networks as a conduit for information delivery, needs identification and support of those affected.

Where possible and appropriate, recovery programs should work with and through these networks. Community networks that are functioning in an affected community should be actively engaged and supported in the recovery process.

In some instances networks may be present in the community but require additional support to enable them to function effectively as a recovery conduit to the community. Consideration will need to be given to the role of Social Media in any given event.

Examples of community networks may include:  Volunteer emergency services (eg CFA, SES, Red Cross, Salvation Army)  Religious and spiritual organisations  School organisations  Service clubs including arts and historical groups  Sporting Clubs, and community recreation groups  Community Centres / Neighbourhood Houses

5.2.3 Levels of Recovery Activities Recovery activities will be dependent on the type of emergency and its affect on the community. Levels relate to the extent of the impact and the resources required to respond to the emergency.

During & immediately Level Description after an Event Level One May require advice from the MRM Level Two Recovery team is involved in meetings/initiating research/forward planning Level Three Recovery team is involved in field activities and formal information provision to the community, ie the establishment of recovery centre/field visits /formal information provision Level Four An extended incident with multiple activities that require long term action and resources Long Term Recovery Level Five Community Development officer assigned and other recovery activities resulting from a major event

5.2.4 Activation of the Recovery Plan it activated? Depending on what the event is, the process can be initiated in the following ways:  City of Greater Geelong (CoGG) Municipal Emergency Resources Officer (MERO) is contacted by the Department of Human Services or responsible agency OR  The Municipal Recovery Manager (MRM) is contacted by the CoGG Response Manager (MERO) to begin recovery OR  The responsible authority / lead agencies or DHS contacts Community Development Department, the Environmental Health Unit or the MRM directly.

Contact numbers for the recovery team are detailed in Part 10 – Contact Directory of this plan.

After Hours Activation

Activation after hours is through the City of Greater Geelong’s After Hours Emergency Services on 5227 5272. Should Council’s Recovery Area need to be activated, then the caller should contact the MRM via mobile phone.

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 5.2.5 Recovery Coordination after an Event Recovery Coordination refers to the Arrangements that will be used in any situation where more than one department, agency or organisation is required to provide services to assist communities and individuals recover from the impact of an emergency.

Recovery coordination Arrangements should provide for:  Assessment of impacts  Input of affected community into decision making  Coordination of service provision  Communication strategies.

Recovery coordination also refers to coordination of activities within and across the functional areas described above. The responsibility for coordination of recovery is Council’s Municipal Recovery Manager.

5.2.6 Management of Volunteers Volunteers are usually made available by various services and agencies including, Rotary, Lions, Apex, etc. Individuals also spontaneously nominate. Volunteering Geelong may be contacted to deploy Managers of Spontaneous Emergency Volunteers (MSEVs) to assist with management of Spontaneous Emergency Volunteers (SEVs). As of 1 February 2016, a G21 trial of a SEV centralized database will be activated and managed by Volunteering Victoria.

Volunteer coordination is undertaken in collaboration with Volunteering Geelong. Discussions are underway between CoGG and Volunteering Victoria to establish a formal Memorandum of Understanding between the two organisations to incorporate MSEV and SEV projects.

5.2.7 Vulnerable Members/Groups of the Community Part 11, Appendix J contains information regarding ‘Vulnerable People – all hazards (previously high bushfire risk areas). The information comprises a list of facilities (within the municipality) where vulnerable people are likely to be situated – such as aged care facilities, hospitals, schools and child care centres. Other facilities listed may include senior citizens centres, hostels, or caravan parks (where long-term residents who may be vulnerable reside, ie not primarily tourism based caravan parks). The facilities listed are managed by a range of community organisations.

Details of those individuals assessed as being vulnerable but are receiving services and are still residing within the community are stored on *MECC Central. This approach ensures that the data is regularly maintained by those agencies delivering the services.

CoGG’s Coordinator Ancillary Services is the Vulnerable Persons Register Coordinator. * Note – MECCs are currently being removed from the EMMV

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 5.2.8 Community Information/Communication Part 7 of MEMPlan details the agreed communication protocols

Information Type / Methods of communication All methods of communication should be considered and chosen based on the timing, urgency and communities involved. Part 7A and 7B of this document details the role, responsibilities and protocols for communicating with the community and other agencies. Consideration will be given to utilisation of social media as one aspect of communication.

5.2.9 Community Briefings Releasing recovery information will be the responsibility of the City of Greater Geelong and Department of Health and Human Services. Any information released must be approved by the Municipal Recovery Manager (General Information) or Chief Executive Officer / Senior Management (Policy / Financial / Political matters). Liaison must take place so duplication and confusion does not occur.

All agencies are responsible for considering the information needs of community sectors with additional needs (eg CALD, hearing/sight impaired, limited access to communication technologies). Outreach programs should consider the specific needs of these sectors. The role of community briefings in the recovery context is to:  Provide clarification of the emergency event  Provide advice on services available  Provide input into the development of management strategies  Provide advice to affected individuals on how to manage their own recovery, including the provision of preventative health information.

Where the emergency has a criminal component, then local government will need to consult with the investigating authority on any necessity to restrict the content of the briefings.

5.2.10 CoGG Levels of Evacuation Victoria Police along with the Control Agency and available expert advice (if time permits) will make the decision to evacuate. VicPol are responsible for evacuation coordination. The Level of Evacuation indicates:

E Remarks

L affected persons to obtain shelter (if possible) with friends/neighbours/relatives*

L affected persons to obtain shelter at an Evacuation Centre/Shelter * for isolated incidents, affected persons may be placed in paid accommodation establishments

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 5.2.11 Emergency Relief / Recovery Centres

Part 11 contains information on Emergency Relief & Evacuation sites for the municipality Recovery Centres.

In the event of an emergency occurring and an evacuation area being required, an appropriate Emergency Relief Centre, ie a designated location used for the assembly of emergency-affected persons is to be nominated by the City of Greater Geelong MERO in consultation with the MRM.

The site will be conveyed to the Police MERC by the MERO so as to allow the MERC to advise Red Cross who will register evacuees on behalf of Victoria Police, and advise any of the relevant agencies. The community is to be notified of the centre’s location by various means such as through local radio stations and/or 774 ABC Radio.

The nominated Emergency Relief Centre will be under the authority of Victoria Police, and a Police representative will be in attendance on site. A Council and Department of Health and Human Services (DHS) representative(s) will also be in attendance to assist.

A relief centre area is to be used for short-term gathering of people, with the provision of information and support being its main purpose.

If the emergency is likely to be for an extended period, arrangements will be made for the provision of a suitable Emergency Recovery Centre.

5.2.12 Evacuations & Registrations Responsibility

Victoria Police Responsibility at  The decision to evacuate rests with the control Municipal level agency in conjunction with Victoria Police and available expert advice.  Consideration must be given to the area that is to be evacuated, the route to be followed, the means of transport and the location to which evacuees will be asked to attend.  Registration of evacuees is also the responsibility of Victoria Police (see below). City of Greater Geelong Support Agency – Evacuation  Once the decision to evacuate has been made the City of Greater Geelong MEM or MERO should be contacted to assist in the implementation of the evacuation. Council’s MRM will coordinate Council’s role  The City of Greater Geelong will provide advice regarding the most suitable Emergency Relief Centre and other resources that may be required (eg. public health, emergency relief considerations or requirements and special needs groups). Australian Red Cross Support Agency –

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017  Victoria Police has delegated the physical task of the Registration of Evacuees registration process to Red Cross.

5.3 Recovery Coordination & Responsibilities Within Council the function of the Municipal Recovery Coordinator rests with a senior officer of council. Recovery Coordinator (MRM) Municipal Recovery Manager refers to the person appointed under the Emergency Management Arrangements. This function rests with a senior officer of Council. This position has the following responsibilities:  Assess the impact of the emergency  Establishment of priorities to enable the restoration of community services / needs  Seek input of the affected community into decision-making  Implement the recovery plan  Bring together the responsible agencies to ensure that services and activities are provided in a coordinated manner  Establish communication strategies across agencies and community  Communicate to the effected community the range of activities that will be provided  Participate at a regional level in the implementation of Emergency Recovery activities including the regional recovery committee  Establish an information and coordination centre in a location appropriate to the affected area, if required. Recovery coordinators do not have the authority to direct organisations to undertake a particular course of action. However, there is an expectation that through the recovery planning process, agencies will agree to provide services, and this agreement is documented as part of the planning process. The recovery team for the City of Greater Geelong sits within the Community Development Department and within Council’s Environmental Health Unit. Requests for information about the impact of emergencies, including details of people affected, casualty numbers, and other impact related details should always be referred to the recovery coordinator.

5.3.1 Initial Impact Assessment An initial impact assessment will be conducted. To facilitate this process the Control Agency shall as early as practicable perform the following tasks:  Survey the extent of damage indicating evaluation of financial and material aid needed  Provide a priority listing for restoration of community needs to assist agencies in the performance of their functions

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017  Monitor the acquisition and application of financial and material aid needed or made available in the restoration period  Impact damaged buildings, to assess level of safety for the approved use of those buildings.

5.3.2 Coordination Structures Part 3 of this plan details the agreed arrangements for coordination across agencies. Response and recovery are usually concurrent activities in the early stages of an emergency event. Recovery activities should begin as soon as practicable when an emergency occurs.

5.3.3 *MECC – Coordination across Agencies During an event, constant communication and review across all agencies needs to occur. In an emergency, Council may establish a Municipal Emergency Coordination Centre (MECC). (i) Once MECC is established Where the MECC is established, communication between the MECC and Council’s Municipal Recovery Manager will be via the MRM representative located within the MECC. The Municipal Recovery Manger shall also keep the Council’s Incident Manager working within the Municipal Emergency Operations Centre (MEOC) briefed on recovery issues. All recovery issues that arrive at the MEOC will be referred to the Recovery Manager and his team.

(ii) If MECC not established The Recovery Manager shall either work within the Municipal Emergency Operations Centre or maintain close liaison with same. * Note – MECCs are currently being removed from the EMMV.

5.3.4 Responsible Council Officers The City of Greater Geelong has appointed xxxxxxxto fulfill the function of Municipal Recovery Manager pursuant to Section 20(1) of the Emergency Management Act (1986).

The following people have been identified as Deputy Municipal Recovery Managers:

xxxxxxx Deputy Municipal Recovery Manager xxxxxxx Deputy Municipal Recovery Manager xxxxxxx Deputy Municipal Recovery Manager xxxxxxx Public Health Emergency Coordinator

5.3.5 Financial Considerations/Resources Financial accounting for Municipal resources utilised in emergencies must be authorised by the MEM of the Municipal Recovery Manager and shall be in

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 accordance with the normal financial Arrangements of the Municipality. This is detailed more fully in Part 9 of this MEMPlan document. Control agencies are responsible for all costs involved in that agency’s response to an emergency.

5.3.6 Acquisition & Management 5.3.6.1 Supply of Goods and Services The Municipality and other recovery agencies shall obtain and pay for goods/services through their own supply systems. The general principle is that costs that are within the ‘reasonable means’ of an agency or organisation are met by that agency or organisation. The Municipal Recovery Manager, with the assistance of Department of Human Services, will coordinate the acquisition of supply of goods/services which cannot be provided by the municipality or participating agencies. When goods can only be obtained in such a manner, approval for payment from Department of Human Services is required prior to the goods being obtained. Depending on the magnitude of the emergency, some government financial assistance may be available for prevention, response and recovery activities. Line of Authority of Resources Support

MUNICIPAL Supply from resources of Municipal area. If unable to supply then pass through MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY MUNICIPALITY RESPONSE COORDINATOR to REGIONAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE COORDINATOR.

REGIONAL Supply from Regional resources (Govt. support Agencies or other Municipalities). REGION If unable to supply passes through REGIONAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE COORDINATOR to STATE LEVEL.

STATE Supply from resources of State (other Regions). If unable to supply passes through STATE COORDINATOR to STATE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA, CANBERRA.

COMMONWEALTH Supply from Commonwealth Agencies or other States. COMMONWEALTH

5.3.6.2 Protocol for Requesting Resources All Agency requests for transport and engineering resources should be directed to the Police Municipal Emergency Response Coordinator, who will request them through the MEM or MERO. Municipal resources should be used in the first instance, prior to engaging private contractors.

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 5.3.6.3 Management of Resources Responsibility for the management of resources shall rest with the MEM. The MEM is responsible for maintaining a resource database and contact details.

5.3.6.4 Control and Support Agencies for Particular Support Control and Support Agency refers to agencies that have responsibility for coordinating the development of strategies in respect of primary areas of recovery. The table below has been taken from the Emergency Management Manual Victoria, August 2014, Page 7-5.

Support Services and Agencies

The table below lists generic support services. The list is neither exhaustive nor exclusive as many agencies have a support role, depending on the emergency.

SUPPORT SERVICES PRIMARY AGENCY SECONDARY AGENCIES Animal Welfare DEPI PV, RSPCA Catering Red Cross Salvation Army Commonwealth resources Victoria Police EMA, ADF Communications Victoria Police ESTA, Telstra, WICEN Deceased persons: identification Victoria Police CCoV Detection of Emergency Locator AMSA Airservices Australia Transmitters Emergency call taking & dispatch ESTA Telstra Emergency medical care and/or Ambulance Victoria (AV) MFESB, ARFF, ESTA, - Others as per transport SHERP (DHHS) Environmental impact assessment EPA DEPI, PV Evacuation Control Agency, Victoria Police VICSES, City of Greater Geelong First aid AV St John Ambulance, LSV, Red Cross,– Others as per SHERP Mapping services/information including:  Digital and hardcopy maps DEPI Geoscience Australia  Aerial photography acquisition  Satellite imagery acquisition  GPS positioning location Media relations Control agency VicPol Produce (food) contaminated by DEPI chemicals of security concern Public warnings Control Agency, Victoria Police BOM, CoGG, Telstra (Emergency Alert) Relocation Control Agency VicPol, VICSES, CoGG Transport, engineering and services VicRoads Others as per TESS Plan support Managers of Spontaneous Volunteering Geelong & DHHS Emergency Volunteers (MSEVs) Volunteering Victoria Weather information and forecasting BOM Workplace / Work related WorkSafe investigations and technical support

5.3.7 Service Provision Arrangements in Geelong Service provision is always coordinated back through the MERO who will contact the lead agency nominated.

The following list of support tasks is a quick reference for the typical services requested during relief/recovery, and indicates the primary service agency and relevant support agencies.

The list is neither exhaustive nor exclusive as many agencies, including combat agencies may have a support role and a functional service role, dependent on the nature of the emergency.

5.3.8 Key Services Provided within Relief and Recovery Types of services provided will depend on the event, its impact on the community and the broader context. Where possible and appropriate, recovery programs should work with and through existing services and networks.

TYPE OF SERVICE COORDINATED BY Information Services City of Greater Geelong Material Aid Salvation Army Financial Assistance Department of Human Services (Region) through the Municipal Recovery Manager Temporary Accommodation Department of Human Services (Region) through the Municipal Recovery Manager Language Services Department of Human Services (Region) through the Municipal Recovery Manager Advise on Rebuilding & Utility Restoration City of Greater Geelong Catering Red Cross Community Development Department of Human Services (Region) in conjunction with the Municipal Recovery Manager/Community Recovery Committee Personal Support Services Victorian Council of Churches (VCC) De-briefing, Counselling, Mental Health As per EMMV, 2013, Part 7, p7-10 services and support, Support Groups, Community activities Managers of Spontaneous Emergency Volunteering Geelong and Volunteering Victoria Volunteers (MSEVs) Legal Assistance Victoria Legal Aid (Disaster Legal Help Victoria – DLHV)

Contact details are listed in Part 10 (Contact Directory) of this plan.

Responsibility for catering at municipal level is the Australia Red Cross. A catering sub-plan expands on the roles and responsibilities and protocol and is contained in Catering Sub-Plan No. 10 In the event that local resources cannot be provided to meet support tasks needed, the request should be passed onto the Divisional Emergency Response Coordinator via the (Police) Municipal Emergency Response Coordinator.

For details of programs within key services refer to Part 11, Appendix H.

5.4 Management of Public Health

5.4.1 Delegated Responsibility The Municipal Environmental Health Officer has been delegated the responsibility for health and medical matters.

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 5.4.2 City of Greater Geelong Public Health Sub-Pplan The procedure for the restoration and maintenance of public health is detailed in the Public Health Sub-Plan. Recovery operations dealing with Public Health will be coordinated by Council’s Public Health Emergency Coordinator.

5.4.3 Public Health Plan and Medical Arrangements

Health and Medical The Municipal Environmental Health Officer has been delegated the responsibility for health and medical matters.

The Public Health and Medical Emergency Management Response and Recovery activities are in accordance with the emergency management arrangements of the Barwon Region Health and Medical Emergency Management Committee.

Due to the dual nature of these arrangements, it will be divided into two components; each being addressed accordingly. These components will be PUBLIC HEALTH and MEDICAL.

Public Health

Environmental Health Officers will participate on the Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee. Representatives will be recorded in the MEMPlan and representation will enable:

 Promotion of the understanding of public health emergency management issues, roles, responsibilities and the emergency capacity of the Environmental Health Services Section  Contribute to the establishment and maintenance of effective working relationships with all relevant emergency management personnel  Contribute to a better understanding of existing and future interagency capacity. Council’s Environmental Health Officers are responsible to address the public health hazards that confront the community and emergency personnel during and after an emergency. The activities are coordinated through the Public Health Emergency Management Coordinator.

The Environmental Health Officers play a supportive role within the recovery team to achieve the emergency management outcomes.

Public health outcomes are contained within the Public Health Emergency Management sub-plan which is referenced in the recovery plan. The Environmental Health Services section is responsible to administer this sub-plan and is accountable to the recovery manager. In doing so public health team liases with allied public health agencies and networks such as DHS, EPA, and the Barwon South Region Health and Medical Emergency Management Committee on which Council’s public health representatives sit.

The Public Health Emergency Management sub-plan applies to emergencies that are a direct consequence of a natural event, such as

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 flood and wild fire, and other emergency events, such as disruption to essential services, major accidents or terrorist activity. It can also be used as a guide for municipalities’ support role in specific public health emergencies. It applies to specific settings such as emergency relief centres, where public health risks need to be managed.

The Public Health Emergency Management sub-plan has been developed by the Environmental Health Services Section in consultation with other internal and external personnel with roles and responsibilities in local emergency management arrangements.

The Public Health Emergency Management sub-plan will address the following issues which may eventuate or exist at emergency relief centres, with emergency personnel, or in the community:

 Inspect, monitor, and ensure the protection of public health in emergency relief centres  Provide advice on water supply and coordinating the supply (if necessary) of drinking water ( supplies limited to those directly affected by the event and quantities capped at 10,000 L – unless exceptional circumstances exist)  Provide advice on sanitising contaminated surfaces and areas affected by an emergency event  Ensuring hygienic food handling – safe production, storage, distribution, disposal and assessment of donated food  Control spread of infectious diseases through monitoring, sampling, immunisation and isolation. Activities around immunisation will be coordinated between DHS, Barwon Health, and the Barwon Region Health and Medical Emergency Management Committee  Support the relevant control agency by facilitating the distribution of information and advice to the community after a chemical, biological, or radiological incident either through an act of terrorism or sabotage  Assessment of donated goods for suitability in terms of sanitation and infection control  Supply of sanitary and hygienic accommodation when required via the MRM  Refuse removal  Pest control  Vector control (mosquito/arbovirus)  Care/coordination of evacuated domestic/farm animals directly affected by the event – owner of animal is responsible for all food, transport and veterinary costs  Support relevant agencies in post incident activities around hazardous and dangerous goods emergencies  Support control agencies with the distribution of information to the community after an incident of hazardous/dangerous goods in the shoreline areas  Liaise with agencies in relation to disposal of dead animals

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017  Emergency and temporary accommodation facilities  In conjunction with the Building Surveyor conduct post impact assessments of emergency affected housing and other structures. Medical Implementation of the medical arrangements will be automatic where people are injured or require medical assistance. This automatic response will be by the Ambulance Service Victoria and hospitals within the municipality. The Ambulance Service will be responsible for obtaining additional first aid support when required (eg. St John’s Ambulance and Red Cross). Management of Medical Response Medical response management at an emergency scene will be carried out by the most senior medical officer present. This could be any of the following:  The highest ranked Ambulance Officer present  A member of a Medical Team  The Area Medical Coordinator. The role of the Medical Commander at the scene of an emergency is to:  Arrange resources required  Provide triage (prioritise patients for treatment)  Coordinate transport of patients  Determine destination of patients. 5.4.4 Public Health Sub-Plan – an Overview Introduction The Public Health Sub-Plan forms part of the City of Greater Geelong Emergency Management Plan. This Sub-Plan can be activated by: (i) The Municipal Emergency Manager - MEM (ii) The Municipal Recovery Manager - MRM (iii) A member of the Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee, when authorised by the Chairperson or Deputy Chairperson of that Committee.

Aim To provide for and coordinate public health procedures at municipal level during an emergency in the City of Greater Geelong. This includes the provision of such services in support of an emergency occurring outside the municipality where so authorised. Public Health Response Procedures The Municipal Public Health Response Team resources include members as listed in Part 10 – Contact Directory. The Sub-Plan components are as follows:

5.4.4.1 Infectious Disease Control

Aim To prevent primary or secondary outbreaks of infectious diseases to all persons within the affected area.

 Organisation & Resources  Department of Human Services Regional Environmental Health Officer  Council Community Development Officer  Council Senior Environmental Health Officer  Council Risk Management/Occupational Health & Safety Advisor.

 Physical Resources  Human Services Notification/Interview Documents  Human Services Guidelines for the Control of Communicable Diseases  Specimen Collection Equipment/Refrigeration  Immunisation Supplies (Prevention), Gamma-globulin (known contacts).

5.4.4.2 Safety of Water Supplies

Aim To monitor the provision of safe water in reticulated and non-reticulated areas in line with Department of Human Services guidelines.

 Organisation & Resources  Barwon Water  Dept. of Human Services Regional Environmental Health Officer  Council Environmental Health Officers  Council Community Development Officer  Council Risk Management/Occupational Health & Safety Advisor.

 Physical Resources  Water Sampling Equipment  Lovibond Testing Equipment  Chlorine Tablets.

5.4.4.3 Safety of Food Supplies

To ensure that food provided during an emergency is not likely to cause any gastrointestinal illnesses, and to assist catering personnel in assessing the quality of food supplies/suppliers, suitability of processing/dispatch sites and method of transportation in accordance with:  Food Act 1984  Food Standards 1987  City of Greater Geelong Food Surveillance Program.

 Organisation & Resources  Council Environmental Health Officers  Public Analyst  Department of Human Services Regional Environmental Health Officer  Council Community Development Officer  Food Industry  National Food Authority.

 Physical Resources  Food Sampling Kit  Thermometers  Sundry items (gloves, etc)  Approved cooking facilities.

5.4.4.4 Safety of Sewage Disposal

 To facilitate the appropriate and safe disposal of sewage waste matter in the absence of a functional reticulated sewerage system.

 To assist and provide information in relation to the re-conditioning of sewerage systems in non-sewered areas during the recovery phase.

 Organisation & Resources  Council Environmental Health Officer  Department of Human Services Regional Environmental Health Officer  Council Community Development Officer  Environmental Protection Agency, EPA  Barwon Water.

 Physical Resources  Temporary Hire Facilities  Septic Tank Locating Probes  System - Marking Equipment/Plant/Chalk  Sundry items (protective clothing, etc).

5.4.4.5 Safety of Refuse Disposal

To monitor the safe and appropriate removal and disposal of accumulated refuse and/or perished goods in order to prevent conditions, which are offensive or dangerous to health.

 Organisation & Resources  Council Manager – Operations  Council Coordinator – Waste Services  EPA Representative  Council Environmental Health Officers  Council Waste Services Officers.

 Physical Resources  Refuse Collection Contractors  Insecticide/Deodoriser Sprays  Spray/Dispersing Equipment  Sundry items (protective clothing, etc).

5.4.4.6 Vermin & Vector Control

To prevent the potential spread of communicable diseases by controlling pest and vector infestations and breeding sites.

 Organisation & Resources  Council Environmental Health Officers  Council Pest Control Contractor  Mosquito Monitoring Contractor  Department Human Services Arbovirus Disease Coordinator  Department of Natural Resources & Environment Officer.

 Physical Resources  Contractors Equipment  All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) and Associated Spray Equipment  Swingfog Machine  Skeetal-Biological Larvacide  Microscope  Sundry items (protective clothing, etc)

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017  Aerial Equipment.

5.4.4.7 Hazardous & Dangerous Substances Aim

To support relevant agencies in the identification and notification of hazardous and dangerous substances.

 Organisation & Resources  EPA  CFA  Department Human Services officer  Council Environmental Health Officers (on secondment)  Council Engineering Infrastructure officer  Worksafe Victoria.

 Physical Resources  Nil.

5.4.4.8 Disposal of Dead Animals

To monitor the disaster area to identify the presence of animal carcasses and when required, direct the prompt and safe burial or disposal of such carcasses.

Note: Department of Environment and Primary Industries is to select the site of disposal – refer also to 1999 EPA publication # 660 ‘What solid wastes can I dispose of on my farm’. Download from http://www.epa.vic.gov.au

 Organisation & Resources  Department of Natural Resources & Environment Officer, Agriculture  Council Environmental Health Officers  Council’s City Services Operations Manager and/or Contractors  EPA.

 Physical Resources  Council and/or contract equipment for loading, transporting, excavating and burial/disposal of carcases  Sundry items (protective clothing, etc).

5.5 Asset Recovery Operations

5.5.1 Role of Council – City Services Council, in particular City Services, has a key role to play with respect to restoring council assets.

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 Asset recovery operations will primarily be coordinated by the MERO, assisted by the Deputy MEROs and the Operations Area of Council.

5.5.2 Asset Recovery – Environmental Environmental considerations are gaining more prominence following an event. Most major events, flood, fire and the like can have a significant impact on the environment and as such may require special attention by the relevant government body. However, in some instances it may be best to leave the environment to repair itself eg 2006 Brisbane Ranges wildfire.

Recovery agencies need to ensure that the appropriate environmental agencies have been engaged as part of the recovery phase.

5.5.3 Restoring Privately Owned Assets The decision to undertake clean-up operations on private property will be referred to the Municipal Emergency Manager (MEM), or in the MEM’s absence the MERO.

If assistance is to be provided, it shall be limited to general clean-up operations, and exclude the demolition of structures, removal of asbestos, felling trees, removal of car bodies, etc.

Where a flood has affected the area, the use of private roads, ie. located inside caravan parks, factories and the like, shall not be condoned or used to facilitate clean-up operations until these private roads have been inspected by a suitably qualified / experienced Council Engineer.

SPECIAL NOTE:

Prior to council undertaking works on private property, the property owner will be required to sign a form that indemnifies Council, its officers/employees and its agents/servants from any claim resulting from the actions of its officers/employees, and agents/servants

5.5.4 Fire and Native Vegetation

Under Clause 52.17 of the Victorian Planning Provisions and Council’s Local Planning Scheme, a planning permit is required to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation. However, there are a number of specific exemptions from the permit requirement.

PART 5 RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS – 2015-2017 The exemptions mentioned below relate to planning permits for native vegetation removal ONLY. For land covered by an Environmental Significance, Vegetation Protection or Significant Landscape Overlay, the same general exemptions apply; however, there are some differences. Where native vegetation needs to be removed/lopped then contact needs to be made with Council’s Planning Unit.

Removal of Dangerous Trees Native vegetation can be removed, destroyed, lopped if it presents an immediate risk of personal injury or damage to property. However, only that part of vegetation which presents the immediate risk can be removed, destroyed or lopped. If the whole tree is presenting the risk it may be removed.

Councils can also remove native vegetation to create an emergency access or to enable emergency works.

Removal of Native Vegetation to Rebuild a Fence Native vegetation can be removed to a maximum of 4m wide to rebuild either a boundary or internal fence.

5.5.5 Building Demolitions

Only a Registered Demolisher, ie one registered with the Building Practitioners Board may carry out demolition work and a licensed contractor, ie A & B Class Removalists is needed to remove hazardous goods.

5.5.6 Returning to your Property after a Fire

Following the Feb 2009 Victorian Bushfires, the Victorian Government, Plumbing Industry Commission and the Building Commission put together a document titled ‘A Guide to the Safe return to your Property’. The document contains general advice for those affected by this wildfire event.

The document does contain very useful information and has been scanned into Council’s Emergency Management web page.

5.6 Evaluation of Recovery Activities after an Event Evaluation of recovery activities and recovery programs following emergency events is essential to maximise lessons learned and identify where improvements can be made. Evaluation may take the form of a formal debrief of operations, or may involve workshops, seminars or applied research into particular areas of activity. Municipal councils will conduct an evaluation of recovery operations following activation of recovery Arrangements in the Municipal Emergency Management Plan.

The evaluation may be an informal or formal debrief depending on the scale of the activation, and must identify the strengths and weaknesses of the local operational response to the needs of the community in consideration of the five recovery environments – Social, Built, Economic, Natural, and Agricultural. The Municipal Recovery Manager must ensure that the Regional Recovery Coordinator is made aware of the outcome of the evaluation. In addition, the council should endeavour to ensure that these plans are formally reviewed in consultation with stakeholders on at least a bi-annual basis.

5.7 Long term Recovery (After an Event) Although recovery processes work alongside response, there is also a long term recovery component. Emergency recovery is based on sound Community Development and Public Health principles.

5.7.1 Involvement of Affected Community – Community Recovery Committees Communities recover best when they are supported to manage their own recovery. The primary method of ensuring and fostering community management of recovery after an event is through the use of Community Recovery Committees (CRCs).

Where the magnitude of the event requires community input into the recovery process one or more Community Recovery Committees may be established within the affected area.

5.7.2 Community Recovery Committee Membership The composition of the committee will vary depending on the affected area. The membership of the committee should include community leaders and organisational and other representatives including:  Council  Municipal Recovery Manager  Public Health Emergency Coordinator  Councillor  Council officers involved  Government agencies  Community groups  Affected persons  Non-government agencies.

5.8 Register. Find. Reunite. (formerly National Registration and Inquiry System NRIS)

Register.Find.Reunite. is operated by Red Cross, and is designed to register persons that have been displaced and to allow relatives and friends to find out details of those that have been registered.

Registration Kits contain all the necessary stationery, forms etc that are needed. Kits are located in every 24hr and most part time police stations, for the City of Greater Geelong this includes the following Police Stations:  Geelong Police Station, 110 Mercer St, Geelong  Corio Police Station 117 Bacchus Marsh Rd, Corio  Ocean Grove Police Station, 67–69 The Parade, Ocean Grove

Triggers for Activation This will depend on the event. If persons affected are to be displaced for a period of time then it becomes the responsibility of the MERC (and can be in consultation with the MERO, CFA, SES Red Cross etc) for it to be activated.

Police are responsible for initial registration of persons until Red Cross volunteers are on site.

Roles:

Police  Hold Register.Find.Reunite. (formerly known as NRIS) kits  Activate system (suitable relief centre opened and contact necessary agencies)  Advertise to community that relief centres are opened (MERO assists through media releases etc)  Deliver kits to relief centres  Initial registration of displaced person  Maintain presence at relief centres  Provide updates to person at the relief centres

Councils  Identify suitable relief centres in MEMPlans (toilets, kitchens, wheelchair access, phone line, etc)  Staff relief centre when opened, supply enough tables, chairs etc for displaced persons

Red Cross  Have teams trained  Check kits regularly  Operate system when activated (registration, inquiries and matching of displaced persons)  Replenish kits when activation is over and ensure kits are returned to where they came from.

This can all be done at the local level and more than one relief centre can be opened.

Activation of State Inquiry Centre (SIC)

If the emergency is likely to escalate, the police can request through their chain of command for the State Inquiry Centre (SIC) to open. The SIC is staffed by volunteers and this is where all registrations are then sent. They can be sent electronically but most are sent by fax. A 1800 number is advertised nationally for all inquiries to be taken and then they are informed if their inquiry matches up with a registration. This takes a lot of pressure off local relief centres but registrations still continue at the local levels.

Issue Date: Nov 2015 Part 5 - 34 Issue No. & Date: 1 / Nov 2015