Who does what in an emergency

Everyone has a part to play when it comes to emergency situations. Roles and responsibilities for Local Government and Emergency Response Services are defined in the State Emergency Management Plan.

State Emergency Management Plan (SEMP)

Council’s role

Council is part of the Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee along with representatives from VicSES, CFA, Ambulance Victoria, DECCA (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action), DFFH (Department of Families, Fairness and Housing), Australian Red Cross, Victorian Council of Churches, and the community. This committee is responsible for producing and reviewing our Municipal Emergency Management Plan.

Municipal Emergency Management Plan(PDF, 814KB)

Council works to mitigate potential disasters by undertaking numerous risk reduction and prevention measures. Council also contributes to community awareness to improve both preparedness and resilience.

In the event of an emergency council supports emergency service agencies with resources and, when required, will open Emergency Relief Centres or Recovery Centres. Council also has the lead role in supporting longer term recovery of our social, financial, natural and built environments.

The role of Emergency Services 

The nature of an emergency determines whether it will be managed by the CFA, VicSES or Victoria Police. The agency in charge will request assistance from the other agencies if required. Victoria Police retain overall responsibility for effective control of the event.

Your role

You are responsible for your safety. Have an emergency plan and be prepared to use it. Ensure all household members know your plan and have practised it. Maintain your property to minimise risk and damage. Keep informed during an emergency and only contact emergency services if it is necessary. Check on neighbours, friends and family members and, if your plan is to leave, then leave early.