Ministerial Statement

FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES ACT REVIEW

The Hon. M.F. O'BRIEN (Napier—Minister for Finance, Minister for Police, Minister for Correctional Services, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Road Safety) (15:18): Today, I table a review of the Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005. Section 149 of the amended act, which came into force in November 2009, required a review of the operation of the act that relates to the period between November 2009 and 30 March 2013. In March 2013, I appointed the Hon. Paul Holloway to conduct the review. His knowledge of the sector and expertise made him a worthy choice. His appointment received broad support from both sides of politics and the emergency services sector.

The review involved significant consultation and many submissions were received, including from members of parliament and local government. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Hon. Paul Holloway for his contribution during the course of the review and the spirit of consultation upon which it was undertaken. I also thank those who took the time to prepare submissions. I received the final review report on 2 September 2013 and, according to the act, the report is required to be tabled before both houses of parliament within 12 sitting days of the report being received.

I am extremely satisfied with the report and its recommendations, and I am confident it will deliver immediate and long-term benefits to government, the emergency services sector and, more importantly, the community itself. Of the 38 recommendations in the review, 31 are supported by the government; five are supported in-principle but require some further consultation; and two have been noted, also with further consultation and consideration required.

Some of the recommendations contemplate significant changes to current arrangements, and I believe it is appropriate to undertake further consultation within the sector before forming a final government response. This consultation will also provide an opportunity to consider the recent key findings in the Queensland Police and Community Safety Review undertaken by Mick Keelty.

It should be noted that approximately 30 of the 38 recommendations will require changes to legislation or regulation if fully adopted. As such, any changes that are implemented will not take effect until next year. I have identified eight priority recommendations, many with a potential direct public safety benefit, but without an immediate legislative impact, that will be developed immediately. Consultation on many others has already commenced. The remaining recommendations will be considered by the incoming government following several months of additional consultation. I also now table a copy of an appendix which is being distributed with a hard copy of the ministerial statement.