River Murray Flood

Mr PEDERICK (Hammond) (14:21): My question is to the Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services. Will the government establish an independent inquiry into the preparation, response and recovery of the 2022-23 River Murray flood event and, if not, why not?

The Hon. J.K. SZAKACS (Cheltenham—Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services) (14:21): I can advise that there is no imminent intention of the government to institute an independent inquiry. This flooding event has been to every extent, both possible and in a planned way, managed in a considered, appropriate way and in a way that has been responsive to community concerns, notwithstanding the fact that this has been one of the most significant natural disasters in our state's history.

There is a body of work being undertaken that is being led by the emergency management council of cabinet and will be reporting directly to cabinet. Some of those matters have been ventilated in this house already, particularly the whole-of-government work being undertaken in respect of levees. It's not a matter within my portfolio responsibilities, but I can advise the member that that is a key priority of the government.

But in direct response to his question, there is absolutely no compelling argument that has either been put to the government or been made by anyone else that would indicate why an independent inquiry into a response by our first responders and our emergency agencies, which I think was exceptional, is warranted.