The Commonwealth Government today (8 Jan 2013) authorised the activation of the Australian Government Disaster Response Plan (COMDISPLAN) to provide the New South Wales Rural Fire Service with essential fuel and refuelling personnel for aerial fire fighting operations as the state faces extreme fire danger today.
Attorney-General Nicola Roxon said the Commonwealth will provide access for the New South Wales Rural Fire Service to Australian Defence Force bases, fuel and personnel trained in specialist refuelling conditions that will enable the Rural Fire Service to effectively combat bushfires across New South Wales.
“The fire threat in NSW is severe to catastrophic today and our first concern is for the safety and needs of those directly affected,” Ms Roxon said.
“Activating the COMDISPLAN will provide NSW with additional support during this severe threat.
“The Australian Defence Force is well placed to assist the Rural Fire Service and will provide crucial, on the ground support to local crews.”
COMDISPLAN is the Australian Government plan to provide assistance to States and Territories in the event of a disaster.
Ms Roxon urged communities to take precautions and be prepared.
“Listening to local radio, checking information from your local emergency services website or social media pages and staying in touch with your community are just some of the ways you can stay informed.
“Preparing an emergency kit that includes items like a battery-operated radio, torch, first aid kit and medications supplies is also a good idea.”
Information on the range of government assistance available can be found at www.disasterassist.gov.au
