STATE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR FLOOD SEPTEMBER 2010 (WESTPLAN - FLOOD)

STATE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR FLOOD SEPTEMBER 2010 (WESTPLAN - FLOOD) Prepared by APPROVED AT SEMC MEETING RESOLUTION NO: 91/2010 DATE OF APPROVAL: 21 September 2010 REVIEW DATE: September 2015

Contact Details For copies of this plan, or to provide comment, please contact: Manager, Natural Hazards Planning Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia FESA House, 480 Hay Street Perth Western Australia 6000 Amendment List AMENDMENT NO. DATE DETAILS 09/04 Review and re-write of 1999 version. 1 09/06 Amend 2004 version, congruous with the provisions of the Emergency Management Act 2005. 2 09/10 Complete Revision. 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 AMENDED BY: (INITIALS) Copies of this State emergency management plan are available on the FESA internet site: http://www.fesa.wa.gov.au using the following menus: Main FESA website State Emergency Management Policy and Planning State Emergency Management Plans (WESTPLAN) WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 2

Table of Contents 1 INTRODUCTION... 5 1.1 AIM AND OBJECTIVES... 5 1.2 SCOPE... 5 1.3 HAZARD DEFINITION... 6 1.3.1 Special Considerations... 6 1.4 RELATED DOCUMENTS... 7 1.5 AUTHORITY TO PLAN... 8 1.6 PLAN RESPONSIBILITIES... 8 1.6.1 Advisory Groups/Subcommittees... 8 1.7 EXERCISE AND REVIEW PERIODS... 9 1.7.1 Testing/Exercising... 9 1.7.2 Review... 9 1.8 ORGANISATIONAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES... 9 2 PREVENTION AND MITIGATION... 11 2.1 RESPONSIBILITY FOR PREVENTION AND/OR MITIGATION... 11 2.2 LEGISLATION AND CODES... 11 2.3 PREVENTION STRATEGIES... 11 2.4 MITIGATION STRATEGIES... 11 3 PREPAREDNESS... 13 3.1 RESPONSIBILITY FOR PREPAREDNESS... 13 3.2 PLANNING AND ARRANGEMENTS... 13 3.2.1 Groups with Special Needs... 14 3.2.2 Resources... 14 3.2.3 Defence Assistance to the Civil Community (DACC)... 14 3.2.4 Training... 15 3.3 COMMUNITY EDUCATION... 15 3.4 EVACUATION ARRANGEMENTS... 15 3.5 LOCAL AND DISTRICT HAZARD EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLANS... 15 3.6 WESTERN AUSTRALIA BORDER AGREEMENTS... 16 3.7 ARRANGEMENTS FOR ASSISTANCE FROM OTHER JURISDICTIONS... 16 3.7.1 Australian Government Physical Assistance... 16 3.7.2 Interstate Assistance... 16 3.8 ARRANGEMENTS FOR ASSISTANCE TO OTHER JURISDICTIONS... 16 4 RESPONSE... 17 4.1 PRINCIPLES... 17 4.2 ALERT... 17 4.3 FLOOD WARNING SYSTEM... 17 4.3.1 Flood Watch... 18 4.3.2 Flood Warning... 18 4.3.3 Distribution of Warnings... 18 4.4 ACTIVATION... 19 4.5 LEVELS OF RESPONSE... 19 4.6 INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM... 20 4.7 SITE ORGANISATION... 20 4.8 HAZARD MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE/ARRANGEMENTS... 20 4.8.1 Incident Management... 20 4.8.2 Liaison Officers... 20 4.9 MULTI AGENCY SUPPORT STRUCTURE AND ARRANGEMENTS... 20 WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 3

4.9.1 Incident Support Group (ISG)... 21 4.9.2 Operational Area Support Group (OASG)... 21 4.9.3 State Emergency Coordination Group... 21 4.9.4 Emergency Situation... 22 4.9.5 State of Emergency... 23 4.10 RE-SUPPLY... 23 4.11 EVACUATION ARRANGEMENTS... 23 4.11.1 Triggers for Evacuation... 24 4.11.2 Industry Evacuation Plans... 24 4.11.3 Notification of Evacuation Arrangements... 24 4.11.4 Evacuation of Pets... 24 4.11.5 Refusal to Evacuate... 24 4.11.6 Return of Evacuees... 25 4.12 SUPPORT PLANS... 25 4.12.1 Medical Response... 25 4.12.2 Communications... 26 4.12.3 Public Information and Media Management... 26 4.13 FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR RESPONSE... 28 4.14 CONTACT ARRANGEMENTS... 28 5 RECOVERY... 29 5.1 RESPONSIBILITY FOR RECOVERY... 29 5.2 TRANSITION TO RECOVERY... 29 5.2.1 Specific On-site Recovery... 29 5.2.2 State Level Recovery Coordination... 30 5.2.3 Community Recovery... 30 5.3 STAND DOWN AND DEBRIEFS... 30 5.4 INCIDENT ANALYSIS / REVIEW... 30 5.4.1 Investigation/Assessment... 31 5.4.2 Identifying Mitigation Strategies... 31 6 APPENDICES... 32 APPENDIX A - DISTRIBUTION... 32 APPENDIX B - GLOSSARY... 33 APPENDIX C - THE FLOOD HAZARD... 34 APPENDIX D - ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF ORGANISATIONS... 36 APPENDIX E - OPERATIONAL SEQUENCE GUIDE FLOOD... 42 APPENDIX F - OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE... 45 WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 4

1 INTRODUCTION Many floods in Western Australia are small and present little threat, however the abnormal flooding caused by extreme weather events has impacted on the State since the Swan River flooded in the early days of settlement. The flooding of rivers, lakes and basins following heavy rainfall is the most common form of flooding in Western Australia. Flooding of rivers in inland areas can spread for thousands of square kilometers and may last for months. In contrast, hilly areas often contain smaller catchments with steeper rivers which flood with less than a day s warning and drain within a few days. Very high tides may also cause or exacerbate flooding in coastal areas. Intense bursts of rainfall often from thunderstorms may cause flash flooding which can become serious in small streams and in urban areas where drainage systems may not cope. In severe floods it is possible for several hundred WA properties to be inundated and for adjoining roads and infrastructure to incur damage. In extreme events, it is not unheard of for whole communities to be relocated for weeks (Carnarvon 1961 and Kiwirrkurra 2001). Planning for flood emergencies in Western Australia is undertaken in compliance with the Emergency Management Act 2005, s18. Additionally, the Emergency Management Regulations 2006 designate the Fire and Emergency Service Authority (FESA) as the Hazard Management Agency (HMA) for flood within Western Australia. This WESTPLAN has been prepared to meet the State Emergency Management Committee (SEMC) planning requirements under the Emergency Management Act 2005. 1.1 Aim and Objectives The aim of WESTPLAN-Flood is to detail the emergency management arrangements for potential or actual floods in Western Australia. The objectives of this WESTPLAN-Flood are to: ensure Western Australia has effective emergency management arrangements in place for potential and actual flood emergencies; define the responsibilities of the HMA, Australian Government agencies, State Government agencies, local government, combat and support organisations in the event of a flood emergency; detail arrangements in relation to the control, coordination and response of potential or actual flood emergencies; provide guidance for flood emergency management plans at district and local level; and detail arrangements for the review of planning at all levels. 1.2 Scope WESTPLAN-Flood covers emergency management (EM) flood planning within the geographic boundaries of Western Australia. The plan deals with mitigation strategies, preparedness for flood, response to flood and initiation of recovery arrangements following the impact of a flood. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 5

The plan documents arrangements for both government and non-government organisations to operate in a cooperative and coordinated manner, in accordance with agreed roles and responsibilities. WESTPLAN-Flood is designed to account for all flood magnitudes and generation mechanisms except the following: Normal minor floodway flooding; Flash flood and similar localised events (refer to WESTPLAN-Storm); Dam breaks and infrastructure failure (refer to WESTPLAN-Dam Break); Cyclonic storm surge (refer to WESTPLAN-Cyclone); or Tsunami inundation (refer to WESTPLAN-Tsunami). 1.3 Hazard Definition A flood emergency is defined as a potential or actual flood event that requires a coordinated multi-agency response and the use of multi-agency resources. In Western Australia, flooding can be caused by a number of different mechanisms including heavy rainfall, storm surge, tsunamis and failure of engineered structures. The most common and significant threats to the social and economic well-being of flood prone communities arise from heavy rainfall and storm surges. Please refer to Appendix C for detailed information on the flood hazard. 1.3.1 Special Considerations 1.3.1.1 Community Factors Recent extreme events have heightened community sensitivities to emergencies and have also increased awareness of problems associated with inundation in urbanised areas and remote communities. Modern society is becoming increasingly dependent on services and infrastructure such as energy supply, transportation, sewage and drainage systems and communication networks. These services can be vulnerable in flood emergencies. Restoration may take significant time and create secondary effects in the community. Western Australia s economic and industrial growth coupled with the rapid growth of the State s population can expose communities to flood risks where there is little historical precedent for such a risk. The need for a sound level of flood planning is therefore of increased importance in areas of the State in which floods are a threat to human life, activities, property and community lifelines. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 6

1.3.1.2 Industry Western Australia has mining, exploration, oil & gas and agricultural industries which make a significant contribution to the national economy. Whilst industry is required to comply with a range of regulations and instructions such as the Occupational Safety & Health Act 1984, consideration should also be given to factors such as isolation, evacuation or re-supply of industry based communities as a result of a flood emergency. Where a risk analysis identifies a reduced level of individual or community resilience due to the transient nature of the work force, FESA strongly encourages industry to develop specific mitigation and preparedness measures in partnership with the local community. 1.3.1.3 Remote Indigenous Communities Indigenous communities have a unique culture that must be considered when planning for hazards, for example: English is often the second or third language spoken. As a result of indigenous Australians relationship with land, lore and kin, communities are often located in regions considered high risk in terms of flood. Isolation may increase response times in the event of an emergency and reduce the ready availability of response resources. These factors may require the development of special local arrangements for prevention, preparedness, response and recovery to flood emergencies. 1.3.1.4 Isolation The geographic dispersion of Western Australia s communities can cause whole communities to become isolated during flooding. Ingress to and egress from such communities by normal transport may be restricted for long periods, possibly several months in extreme cases. The need for emergency re-supply of communities should be considered in flood planning. 1.4 Related Documents Country Areas Water Supply Act 1947; Country Towns Sewerage Act 1948; Emergency Management Act 2005; Emergency Management Regulations 2006; Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia Act 1998; Land Drainage Act 1925; Local Emergency Management Arrangements; Main Roads Act 1930; Metropolitan Water Authority Act 1982; Metropolitan Water Supply, Sewerage, and Drainage Act 1909; WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 7

Plans, Policies and supporting documents authored within the State Emergency Management framework; Planning and Development Act 2005 Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914; The Meteorology Act 1955 (Australian Government Legislation) Water Agencies (Powers) Act 1984; Water Boards Act 1904, as read with the Water Boards Act Amendment Act 1928; Water Supply, Sewerage, and Drainage Act 1912; and Water Supply, Sewerage, and Drainage Amendment and Validation Act 1981. 1.5 Authority to Plan The State Emergency Management Committee (SEMC) is responsible for ensuring the preparation of Westplans it considers necessary [Section 20(1) EM Act 2005]. SEMC has delegated the responsibility to ensure the development and review of the State Emergency Management Plan Flood [Westplan Flood] to FESA. Under Section 9 of the Water Agencies (Powers) Act 1984, the Minister for Water Resources has the function of developing plans for and providing advice on flood management. 1.6 Plan Responsibilities FESA s responsibilities for flood planning encompass the development, preparation, maintenance, testing and review of a State Emergency Management Plan for the flood hazard. In order to ensure that the plan is consistent with flood planning responsibilities under the Water Agencies (Powers) Act 1984, the Department of Water has been consulted during the preparation of the plan. 1.6.1 Advisory Groups/Subcommittees 1.6.1.1 Flood Warning Consultative Committee. The Flood Warning Consultative Committee (FWCC) serves as a collaborative forum for Federal and State Government agencies to: undertake planning for warning systems and process improvements; establish requirements for new and upgraded flood forecasting and warning systems that are based on best practice; and provide strategic guidance on the overall development of flood warning services in Western Australia. The FWCC also promotes close liaison and effective coordination between meteorological and hydrological forecasting groups to create an environment WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 8

in which the formulation and presentation of warnings are based on the best available technical and scientific knowledge. The FWCC comprises of representatives from: Bureau of Meteorology (Chair); Fire and Emergency Services Authority Department of Water; Main Roads WA; Water Corporation; Western Australian Local Government Association; and other agencies as seconded by the Chair. The FWCC meets at least two times per year, with additional meetings scheduled as considered necessary. The FWCC does not have an operational role, but provides routine reports to the State Mitigation Committee. 1.7 Exercise and Review Periods 1.7.1 Testing/Exercising WESTPLAN-Flood should be validated regularly to ensure the arrangements are appropriate for the circumstances in which they are to be applied. Additionally, a portion of the plan should be evaluated annually to gauge how efficiently the plan meets its design criteria. Exercises are the usual means of evaluation. State Emergency Management Policy (SEMP) 2.2 Development and Review of State Emergency Management Plans requires the plan to be exercised annually. Such exercises may test elements as broad as operational plans, communication procedures and facilities, individual staff performance, and inter organisational operations. Exercises are to be conducted in accordance with SEMP 3.1 Emergency Management Exercises. Other means of evaluation include such techniques as stakeholder surveys, expert panel reviews and comparison against key performance indicators. Activation of the plan during an actual emergency can be considered as a test of the plan. 1.7.2 Review WESTPLAN-Flood will be reviewed by FESA, on behalf of SEMC, as often as necessary, and not less than once every five years. 1.8 Organisational Roles and Responsibilities Emergency risk management is most effective when there is government and public participation in the design and implementation of risk and vulnerability reduction strategies at the district and local levels. This plan details WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 9

organisational responsibilities at a State level and requires that participating organisations support planning at district and local level. FESA, as the HMA for potential and actual flood emergencies in Western Australia, is responsible for ensuring effective preparedness and response to this risk within the community. A coordinated response to a flood emergency requires combat and support organisations to undertake a variety of agreed and statutory responsibilities. These responsibilities are outlined at Appendix D. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 10

2 PREVENTION AND MITIGATION 2.1 Responsibility for Prevention and/or Mitigation Local government has the responsibility for prevention strategies for flood emergencies within Western Australia. FESA also has limited responsibility for coordinating the development and maintenance of prevention aspects in State emergency management plans for flood as designated in SEMC Policy 2.2. The Department of Water (DoW) also has prevention/mitigation responsibilities related to the development of floodplain management strategies which are empowered by the Water Agencies (Powers) Act 1984. 2.2 Legislation and Codes Legislation which assists in the prevention of flooding, mitigates the effects of flooding or assists in the emergency response to flooding includes: Building Code of Australia (updated annually); Building Regulations 1989; Emergency Management Act 2005; Emergency Management Regulations 2006; FESA Act 1998; Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1960; Local Government Act 1995; Main Roads Act 1930; Occupational Safety & Health Act 1984; Planning and Development Act 2005; and Water Agencies (Powers) Act 1984 2.3 Prevention Strategies Flood prevention and mitigation strategies include engineering solutions, such as the building of levees; social solutions, such as community education; and enforcement of legislative requirements, such as building restrictions in flood prone areas. 2.4 Mitigation Strategies Mitigation strategies contribute to the increased resilience and reduction in vulnerability of our communities by proactively reducing or minimising the effects of hazardous events. Key strategies are employed to mitigate the risks associated with potential or actual flood emergencies. These strategies are shown in TABLE 1. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 11

TABLE 1: Flood Mitigation Strategies Strategy Promotion of, and participation in, community awareness campaigns/programs for at risk communities. Application and enforcement of The Building Codes of Australia and informed land use planning for vulnerable areas. Building design to elevate floor or pad levels. Developing resilience in the community and minimising the vulnerability of communities to effects of flood. Encourage the relocation of structures out of the floodplain. Participation in research and development programs directed towards increased mitigation, improved community warnings and better information dissemination. Liaison with industry groups to promote and assist with mitigation planning for transient workforce populations Provision of support to voluntary emergency organisations. Monitoring weather patterns to identify potential and or actual floods and issue warnings to the community. Provision of advice to the community in the form of Flood Information Bulletins, Flood Watch and Warning Messages. Flood mapping. Provision of advice on floodplain management. Identification of suitable buildings for designation as Welfare/Evacuation Centre s. Responsible Organisations Local governments assisted by FESA Local governments supported by Department of Water Local governments Local governments FESA FESA FESA, Local governments Bureau of Meteorology assisted by Flood Warning Operational Group and FESA Bureau of Meteorology Department of Water Department of Water Department for Child Protection in consultation with Local governments Maintenance of a register of potential welfare/evacuation centres. Participation in the Flood Warning Consultative Committee. Ensuring the sustainability of service delivery of critical infrastructure through design and maintenance standards. Providing advice to agencies related to sustainability of critical infrastructure services and access in at risk communities. Department for Child Protection in consultation with Local Emergency Management Committee Bureau of Meteorology (Chair), FESA, Department of Water, Main Roads Western Australia, Water Corporation, WALGA Main Roads Western Australia, Utility Providers Main Roads Western Australia, Utility Providers WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 12

3 PREPAREDNESS 3.1 Responsibility for Preparedness Preparedness activities focus on developing systems to ensure the delivery of essential emergency response capabilities when an emergency occurs. These systems include the development of plans and procedures; design of organisational structures; implementation of training; development of resource management systems; and community education. As the HMA for flood, FESA has responsibility for: promoting an improved state of resilience within communities to improve the management of future risks; and ensuring that all emergency management activities related to flood preparedness are undertaken; 3.2 Planning and Arrangements Emergency management plans are to be developed and based on: best practice principles; technical and scientific knowledge; historical data and information; and local knowledge and experience. Successful flood operations depend on good planning, effective resource utilisation and a coordinated response which is timely, efficient and effective. The concept of this plan is to employ and coordinate the resources of State and Australian Government departments, authorities and agencies; resources available to private industry; and resources available to volunteer groups, for flood operations. This concept is based on: availability of a 24 hour state-level contact facility for receipt of Flood Watch and Flood Warning reports. This is the FESA Communications Centre at 480 Hay Street, Perth; establishment of operational facilities at state, district and local levels from which flood operations can be managed; deployment of trained emergency service personnel and volunteers; provision of expert technical advice on hydrological and meteorological modeling by State and Australian Government agencies when requested by FESA; provision of expert technical advice on road ways, transport routes by the Main Roads Western Australia when requested by the FESA; tasking of agencies in a coordinated manner in support of FESA. Agency procedures are then employed to carry out tasks. In accordance with the Emergency Management Act 2005, local government is responsible for the development of local emergency management WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 13

arrangements. The Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) is to provide advice to the local government in this regard. 3.2.1 Groups with Special Needs Special-needs groups include individuals and groups of people within the community for whom special consideration must be given in emergency management plans and arrangements. These groups may require unique arrangements in regard to resources, mobility, timings, support or communications when responding to an emergency. Among the groups to be considered are: Remote communities; Indigenous communities; Tourists; People undertaking recreational activities in flood prone areas; Culturally and linguistically diverse groups; Persons with physical, medical or mental conditions (including persons using assistance animals); Aged Care. Special-needs groups should be included in the development of local risk plans for inclusion in Local Emergency Management Arrangements. 3.2.2 Resources The identification of appropriate and adequate resources and expertise are essential to preparedness for a flood emergency. Planning at all levels should reference resource management, inventory and acquisition arrangements. Resources which are used in flood emergencies may be required at short notice and frequently include: transport resources, earth moving machinery, flood boats, signage, electricity generating plants, lighting, temporary toilet facilities, medical equipment and drugs. FESA is responsible for the overall provision of resources required to physically respond to a potential or actual flood emergency. Combat agencies and support organisations are required to provide their own resources in the first instance and to make requests for additional resources to FESA as required. Local and district emergency plans should incorporate the use of community and industry resources, especially in relation to accommodation and welfare. Such plans should also identify methods, such as resource registers, to acquire community resources during a flood emergency. 3.2.3 Defence Assistance to the Civil Community (DACC) Defence Assistance to the Civil Community (DACC), can be provided in a number of ways which are defined as categories of assistance in Annex A to WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 14

SEMC Policy Statement 4.9 'Commonwealth Physical Assistance'. The most immediate support is DACC Category 1 Local Emergency Assistance, which is: emergency assistance for specific tasks provided by a local commander or administrator, from within his or her own resources, in localised emergency situations when immediate action is necessary to save human life, alleviate suffering, prevent extensive loss of animal life or prevent widespread loss of damage to property. These resources, if any, should be identified in Local Emergency Management Arrangements. Other categories of DACC Assistance may be provided at the discretion of Emergency Management Australia where the State requests Australian Government physical assistance. In these cases the initial resource request should be made through FESA. Where an operation is beyond the resources of the State, a request for assistance from other jurisdictions may be made in accordance with paragraph 3.7. 3.2.4 Training FESA is responsible for training and equipping an emergency service capable of assisting the community to manage the effects of floods. Combat and Support agencies are also expected to provide trained and equipped personnel. FESA is responsible for conducting multi-agency exercises for the relevant level of emergency management, thereby ensuring all agency personnel are aware of their role in the organised response. 3.3 Community Information FESA, local governments, the Bureau of Meteorology, the Department of Water, the Department of Health and the Water Corporation all provide a contribution to education programmes developed to inform and educate the public on flood warning services, flood risk and flood management. During potential or actual flood events, FESA will provide community information as required in a coordinated manner through the Incident Controller and or Operational Area Manager. Media and public information strategies are reviewed annually by FESA to facilitate the appropriate communication of flood information to the community. 3.4 Evacuation Arrangements Evacuation arrangements are addressed in the response section of this plan. 3.5 Local and District Hazard Emergency Management Plans Where flood prone areas are identified as a risk to the community FESA shall ensure the development of local flood plans including consideration of: Transfer of information from the model flood inundation maps to LEMC district based maps; WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 15

Analysis and confirmation of the inundation projections; Development of map overlays or other data modelling for : a. Critical facilities b. Special needs facilities c. Special needs populations d. Transportation lifelines e. Hazmat sites and facilities Determine where damage is likely to occur, and identify areas of the population at the greatest risk; Ascertain demographics for at-risk populations; Consider existing controls (i.e. warning systems and land use planning); Implement steps to reduce likely effects; Develop evacuation routes and a traffic control plan. In addition to local plans, FESA may develop District Flood Plans to coordinate activities during potential or actual flood emergencies. 3.6 Western Australia Border Agreements Currently Western Australia is not a party to any border agreements in relation to potential or actual flood emergencies. Request for assistance will be treated on an individual basis between State/Territory Governments and Emergency Management Australia (EMA). 3.7 Arrangements for Assistance from Other Jurisdictions In the event that a flood emergency is beyond the resources of the State, support may be requested from the Australian Government, other states or overseas. 3.7.1 Australian Government Physical Assistance The provision of Australian Government physical assistance is dependent upon established criteria and requesting arrangements. All requests for physical assistance are to be made in accordance with SEMP 4.9 Commonwealth Physical Assistance. 3.7.2 Interstate Assistance Assistance from other jurisdictions (and the process involved) will be determined by FESA in accordance with the conditions prevailing at the time. 3.8 Arrangements for Assistance to Other Jurisdictions Assistance to interstate, overseas and other jurisdictions (and the process involved) will be determined by FESA and, where appropriate, Emergency WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 16

Management Australia (EMA) in accordance with the flood conditions and forecasts.response 4.1 Principles Management of a flood emergency is based on graduated response using the following guiding principles: FESA is responsible for activating and managing the response to a potential or actual flood emergency within Western Australia; FESA will use arrangements which employ identified combat and support organisations (refer to Appendix D) to provide an effective and coordinated response; Responsibility for resources and responding to an emergency initially rests at the local level; An emergency beyond the capability of local resources will receive support from District resources. State resources will be provided if District resources are inadequate; Communication between Local, District and State authorities is essential to ensure intelligent and timely application of resources to manage the emergency; Should a flood create a subsequent emergency, then reference will be made to SEMP 4.1 Operational Management and the relevant State Plans (e.g. Westplan-Hazmat). 4.2 Alert In the event of a potential or actual flood emergency, the Bureau of Meteorology Flood Warning Centre (FWC) will be activated and will provide FESA with information about the potential or actual flood. Alternatively, initial information regarding a potential or actual flood impact can often originate from a local or agency source. Such sources and agencies should notify FESA. 4.3 Flood Warning System Under Section 6 of the Australian Government Meteorology Act 1955, the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has a responsibility for flood forecasting in Western Australia. The BoM exercises this responsibility through the FWC which has extensive data, but may require additional information and resources from W.A. Government Agencies when developing forecasts. In order to assist flood forecasting, the FWC may consult with Flood Warning Operational Group (FWOG) members or activate the FWOG as it deems appropriate. The FWOG comprises of representatives from: Bureau of Meteorology (Chair); Main Roads WA; WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 17

Department of Water; Water Corporation; and other agencies selected by the Chair. The composition of the FWOG can be varied depending on the nature of the event, technical expertise requirements and resource needs. Agencies may not be required to attend every meeting and it is not always necessary for agencies to attend in person as virtual meetings using telephone, email, internet and video conferencing may be utilised. The duration of FWOG meetings will vary with the level and immediacy of the emergency and the requirements of FESA. Agencies may be requested to provide personnel to cover multiple shifts within the constraints of each agency s available resources and commitments. Flood watch and flood warning information issued by the FWC is described in the following paragraphs. 4.3.1 Flood Watch Flood Watch provides information to generate early awareness of developing hydro meteorological conditions, which may lead to possible or likely flooding in a particular district during the next 24 to 72 hours. Messages will make short generalised statements about the developing weather situation, including forecast rainfall totals, the current state of the catchments and an indication of the rivers at risk from flooding. Enabling people and the community to take action to increase safety and reduce the costs associated with flooding. 4.3.2 Flood Warning Flood Warning provides information to enable timely appropriate action to be taken when flooding is anticipated or occurring. Messages are issued for specific river basins and, where possible, will provide forecast rainfall and river levels. A Flood Warning aims to provide sufficient information to explain what is happening, where it is happening, how it will affect the recipient of the message and what possible evasive actions could be employed. 4.3.3 Distribution of Warnings It is particularly important to ensure that information released to the community is consistent and is not contradictory. Flood information and flood predictions developed by agency representatives should be used to support the issue of consolidated Flood Watches or Flood Warnings by the FWC. The nature of flooding in WA can lead to flood information being obtained locally and where this information is relevant to forecasting it should be referred to the FWC at the first available opportunity. All agencies may independently distribute the flood warnings and predictions after they have been endorsed by the FWC. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 18

Should additional support be required to issue Flood Warnings or information in a particular emergency, FESA may call upon the State Emergency Public Information Coordinator (SEPIC) to activate the State Public Information Emergency Management Support Plan. 4.4 Activation Upon receipt of advice of a potential or actual flood, FESA will activate relevant emergency personnel and may implement State, district and/or local plans. The level of implementation of plans and operational structures can vary considerably depending upon circumstances. Factors which may influence the level of response include the degree of threat to a community, the number of FESA Districts impacted by the flood and whether a multi-agency response is required. More detail of the sequence of activation is shown in the ALERT and CALLOUT phases of Appendix E. 4.5 Levels of Response Sound emergency management requires a graduated response which is appropriate to the circumstances of the emergency. TABLE 2 shows descriptors which have been developed to ensure a response in which the size of both the Incident Management Team (IMT) and the coordination structure are proportional to the size of the flood emergency. The Table enables one of three operational levels to be selected depending upon the characteristic factors of the emergency. The descriptors are provided as guidance to FESA Operations Managers and are used for all of FESA s HMA and Combat Agency responsibilities (Refer to Appendix F). TABLE 2: Operational Levels FACTOR LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 Local Resource Resources required from State or National resources response/resources Involvement outside the local area required required Agency Involvement Incident Management Structures Impact on Community Single or limited multiagency response (day to day business) Managed by an HMA IMT only Minimal impact on community Requires multi-agency response Activation of ISG Medium impact on the community Requires significant multiagency response Activation of an OASG Significant impact on the community Duration Protracted duration Protracted response duration Complexity No significant issues Medium level of complexity Activation of State Emergency Measures Low risk of incident escalation Potential declaration of an Emergency Situation High level of complexity Multiple incident areas Potential declaration of an Emergency Situation or State of Emergency Other Medium level of media Significant level of media WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 19

interest interest Significant political interest 4.6 Incident Management System During all emergencies, FESA will use the Australasian Inter-service Incident Management System (AIIMS). All agencies with agreed responsibilities under this plan are encouraged to ensure their personnel are familiar with and able to work within the AIIMS structure. 4.7 Site Organisation FESA has established a number of Operations Centres around the State to: provide robust facilities for the oversight of emergencies; facilitate coordination with other emergency service agencies and combat agencies; coordinate state and regional response to various emergencies; manage the dissemination of information to the community; and provide appropriate advice to various levels of government; 4.8 Hazard Management Structure/Arrangements When a Flood Watch or Flood Warning has been provided, and the risk of a potential or actual flood is likely to require a level two or three management structure, then FESA will appoint an Operational Area Manager(s) (OAM). The OAM will assume overall management of the flood operation as shown at Appendix E. 4.8.1 Incident Management FESA will appoint the IC(s), responsible for the overall management and control of an incident, within specific localised communities or geographical areas. An Incident Management Centre may be established, for the purpose of locating an Incident Controller at or near the scene of an emergency, and to facilitate better management of the emergency. The Incident Management Centre will be able to accommodate reliable communication capability and basic administration needs for both the Incident Controller and Incident Management Team. 4.8.2 Liaison Officers All agencies operating under WESTPLAN-Flood are required to place a Liaison Officer (LO) on call upon activation of this Plan. The LO must be of sufficient experience and seniority to assist FESA with the decision-making process. 4.9 Multi Agency Support Structure and Arrangements SEMP 4.1 Operational Management details the multi-agency support structure used for different levels of emergency. The following paragraphs elaborate on how this policy will be applied during flood emergencies. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 20

4.9.1 Incident Support Group (ISG) The Incident Support Group/s consists of the Local Emergency Coordinator and Liaison Officers from local organisations involved in the incident. Its purpose is to assist the Incident Controller through the provision of information, expert advice, support and resources relevant to each organisation. FESA shall appoint the Chair of the ISG and determine membership of the ISG. The Incident Controller shall activate the ISG when an incident is designated as Level 2 or higher and/or multiple agencies need to be coordinated. 4.9.2 Operational Area Support Group (OASG) Where the OAM identifies that the risk is likely to require a level 2 or level 3 response, an OASG shall be established to assist with the management of the event. Members of the OASG should include agencies that have an agreed responsibility under this plan. Membership may change depending upon operational requirements. The minimum membership of an OASG for a flood emergency is: FESA (Chair) Department for Child Protection Department of Health Department of Environment and Conservation District Emergency Coordinator Lifelines Local government Representative Main Roads WA Western Australia Police 4.9.3 State Emergency Coordination Group Should a flood event escalate to the point where it appears that strategic coordination of agencies may be required at a state-level, then the SECG will be activated in accordance with SEMC Procedure OP11 SECG Activation. Triggers for activation of the SECG include (but are not limited to): a potential or actual flood threatening a major community; widespread flooding of significant residential areas or a large geographical area containing communities or assets at risk; significant risk to critical infrastructure; an Emergency Situation is declared; or a State of Emergency is declared. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 21

The requirements for membership of the State Emergency Coordination Group are outlined in Section 26 (3) of the Emergency Management Act 2005. In the case of a potential or actual flood emergency, it is recommended that the SECG Membership should include, as required: Core Group Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) State Emergency Coordinator (Chair) Executive Officer of the State Emergency Management Committee (SEMC) Western Australia Police Local government representation Main Roads WA Bureau of Meteorology Chair State Recovery Committee / State Recovery Coordinator Department for Child Protection Department of Health Other Members Department of Water Department of Defence Department of Education Department of Environment and Conservation Department of Indigenous Affairs Industry representatives Telstra Water Corporation Western Power Any other representatives as considered necessary by the State Emergency Coordinator. 4.9.4 Emergency Situation Under Section 50 of the Emergency Management Act 2005, FESA may declare that an Emergency Situation exists in an area of the State in respect of a hazard. The declaration shall be made in accordance with SEMC Procedure OP 13 Declaration of Emergency Situation The declaration must not be made unless it is satisfied that: An emergency has occurred, is occurring or is imminent in that area of the State; and WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 22

There is a need to exercise powers under Part 6 of the Emergency Management Act 2005 to prevent of minimize : Loss of life, prejudice to the safety, or harm to the health, of persons or animals; Destruction of, or damage to property; or Destruction of, or damage to, any part of the environment. An emergency declaration must include: The time when and date on which the declaration is made; and The area of the State to which it applies. FESA will notify the State Emergency Coordinator and each District Emergency Coordinator and Local Emergency Coordinator for a local government district to which the Emergency Situation declaration applies, as soon as practicable after the declaration is made [s50(5) Emergency Management Act 2005]. 4.9.5 State of Emergency In the event of a flood emergency which has consequences requiring the use of specific emergency powers, the Minister may declare a State of Emergency in accordance with Section 56 of the Emergency Management Act 2005. The arrangements for making such a declaration are contained in SEMP Procedure OP 14 Declaration of State of Emergency. When a State of Emergency is declared, a State Disaster Council is established in accordance with Section 63 of the Emergency Management Act 2005. 4.10 Re-supply The Operational Area Manager or Incident Controller will manage the resupply of communities. In the case of isolated communities that have retail outlets, Westplan - Freight Subsidy may be activated. 4.11 Evacuation Arrangements The decision to evacuate residents from areas before or after impact is the responsibility of the Operational Area Manager, if appointed, or the Incident Controller. The decision will normally be taken in consultation with key stakeholders. The responsibility for implementing the evacuation rests with FESA, which may task support from other Agencies, particularly WA Police and Department for Child Protection. SEMC Policy 4.7 provides guidance on community evacuation. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 23

FESA is responsible for arranging the transport requirements for the evacuation from the emergency site. Local and district resources should be used wherever possible. 4.11.1 Triggers for Evacuation Upon receipt of a potential or actual flood advice FESA may evacuate residents in risk prone areas due to factors such as: Failure of essential services - Failure of lifelines such as sewerage, power, telecommunications and water pose significant health risks to the community. In the event of any or all of these systems failing evacuation of individuals, families and the community may be necessary; Flooding affecting properties - Evacuation may occur if it is deemed likely that properties will be flooded; Isolation of properties - Persons who are not prepared for isolation or unsuited due to medical conditions, disabilities, age etc should be encouraged to evacuate Structural Collapse - Buildings that are at risk of structural collapse as a result of flooding and or erosion should be evacuated. 4.11.2 Industry Evacuation Plans Local industry may have site specific evacuation plans which form part of their Occupational Safety and Health Strategies. These plans should be developed in consultation with the Local Emergency Management Committee to ensure they are realistic in terms of resource availability and timeliness. 4.11.3 Notification of Evacuation Arrangements FESA may use an emergency warning system, local radio stations and TV stations to warn the public of the danger and provide safety advice. This would be under the authorisation of the Operational Area Manager and/or Incident Controller(s) 4.11.4 Evacuation of Pets The evacuation of pets will be conducted at the discretion of FESA subject to operational circumstances. Due to safety restrictions, it may not be possible to allow pets to accompany their owners when transported via aircraft or flood boats. Assistance animals (guide dogs, diabetic dogs etc) will remain in the care of their owners throughout the evacuation. This includes the transport and access into evacuation centres. 4.11.5 Refusal to Evacuate People who are reluctant to evacuate or refuse to comply with any evacuation order under the Emergency Management Act 2005 during an Emergency Situation or in a declared State of Emergency should be referred to the Incident Controller who can arrange recording of the refusal and subsequent action, if required. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 24

4.11.6 Return of Evacuees FESA is responsible for managing the return of persons evacuated as the result of flooding. The return of evacuees should follow consultation with relevant emergency management agencies to ensure appropriate response and recovery activities have been completed. Additionally the return should be scheduled to ensure that returning evacuees will not create a subsequent hazard for the community. 4.12 Support Plans Should additional support be required during a flood emergency, it will initially be sourced through the appropriate liaison officer and co-ordinated through the Incident Support Group, Operational Area Support Group or State Emergency Co-ordination Group. Support that is more detailed may require the activation of State Support Plans including the following: State Telecommunications Emergency Management Support Plan; State Isolated Communities Freight Subsidy Plan; State Health Emergency Management Support Plan; State Welfare Emergency Management Support Plan; State Recovery Coordination Emergency Management Support Plan; and State Public Information Emergency Management Support Plan Detailed advice regarding some of the support arrangements is contained in the following paragraphs. 4.12.1 Medical Response Regional Health Services Disaster Plans are normally activated as part of a graduated response. In an emergency event, the graduated response stages may be condensed, with stages being activated concurrently. The initial coordination of regional health services medical resources and personnel will be coordinated at the local level. Should a flood emergency result in numbers of casualties beyond the capabilities of local health service medical resource and personnel, then the Regional Health Disaster Coordinator will consult with the Operational Area Manager and will notify the State Health Coordinator (SHC). Similarly, if the local Environmental Health Officer requires assistance with any public health issue, this shall be provided through the SHC. The notification process to the SHC is via the Department of Health On-call Duty Officer (OCDO) paging service. The SHC will determine if WESTPLAN- Health is to be activated. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 25

4.12.2 Communications The provision of communications for emergency response measures under WESTPLAN-Flood are based on the use of the communication facilities required for the day-to-day activities of participating organisations. Should these services be inadequate, then additional resources may be sought in accordance with WESTPLAN-Telecommunications Support. FESA has a public emergency assistance line (132500) to facilitate the provision of emergency assistance to the community. If communication with a community at risk has not been established, FESA will dispatch a reconnaissance team including medical and communication responders at the first available opportunity. 4.12.3 Public Information and Media Management WESTPLAN Public Information details the emergency management arrangements for provision of emergency public information (EPI). SEMP 4.6 Emergency Public Information details the responsibilities and requirements for HMA s Combat Agencies and Support Organisations in providing timely, accurate and consistent EPI to communities at risk. FESA has arrangements to ensure the community of Western Australia is informed of potential, developing and current flood emergencies. FESA s Public Information Operational Plan (PIOP) is designed to provide a framework for FESA s communication to the community, media and other stakeholders in a timely, consistent and accurate way during a flood emergency. The PIOP addresses the operational, resourcing and strategic considerations which could arise during an emergency. It takes into account internal and external stakeholders and includes media liaison, internal communication and public information alerts. Hazard specific public information requirements are included in the PIOP. 4.12.3.1 Approval of Information During an emergency, information is gathered from the Incident Controller and distributed by FESA s Media and Public Affairs (MPA) team. FESA only comments on matters within its jurisdiction and all information is approved prior to release. Public information talking points about the flood response will be completed by the FESA Media Liaison Officer (MLO) or Public Information Officer (PIO), and approved by the Incident Controller or delegate. These talking points are used to complete existing authorised media alert templates which are then distributed. Where strategic or policy information is added to the talking points it must be approved by the Regional Operations Centre (ROC) or State Operations Centre (SOC). WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 26

4.12.3.2 Consistency of Information FESA uses core information from the incident scene to inform all of its communication to various stakeholders. This core information is documented and authorised on a flood talking points template that uses a common alerting protocols (CAP) approach. Each talking points template includes preapproved key messages. Information captured on the talking points is then used to complete preapproved media alert templates with fields to include or delete depending on the specific circumstances. The use of the template system means the Incident Controller only needs to approve one document - the talking points. 4.12.3.3 Delivery Methods After the Incident Controller has approved information, it will be distributed by the MPA team using some or all of the following: Media and Web Alerts - Templated media alerts are filled in using the talking points provided from the field. This information is sent to all media outlets and posted to the alerts page of the FESA website which can be linked via RSS feed. Emergency Broadcasts - ABC radio broadcasts emergency information at quarter to and quarter past the hour, during a major emergency where there is imminent danger they will break into programming. FESA endeavours, through the MLO, to provide a very brief interview at ten minutes past the hour to lead into the quarter past update. Alerts provided by FESA are read out word for word. FESA Information Line 1300 657 209 - Telephone line that public can call then listen to recorded information about an emergency incident. This will be updated as soon as new information is available and/or at regular intervals. FESA Call Centre - FESA staff/volunteer call takers answer telephone queries from the public. (When this number is not staffed, it is diverted to the information line.) TV Crawler - TV crawlers will be used for major emergencies only. StateAlert - StateAlert delivers critical public information to people in a specific location who are facing an imminent threat. It utilises the public (telephone) network and can only be authorised by the State Duty Director or delegate. Media Releases - General information about an incident prepared for the media and placed on the FESA website news page and sent to all media outlets. It shall be updated and disseminated regularly to satisfy mainstream media requirements, usually morning and afternoon, or as required. Public Information Teleconference - This is an opt-in service for media and public affairs decision makers in other combat and support agencies. A teleconference may be offered at least daily for 48 hours to keep other responders and incident participants up to date about communications activities and identify emerging issues. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 27

4.13 Financial Arrangements for Response SEMC Policy No. 4.2 Funding for Emergencies details the criteria for a variety of funding situations and should be consulted to determine the funding arrangements. Funding situations include: Situation A. FESA response with no support from other organisations. Situation B. FESA response with agreed bi-lateral arrangements for support, either through plans or memoranda of understanding. Situation C. A multi-agency response. Situation D Where costs are incurred in delivering services or resources at the request of the FESA, which are not part of the agency's core functions and there are no prior agreements as to funding responsibilities. Situation E. Where an emergency is declared an eligible event under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) Determination and arrangements have been entered into between agencies and FESA for the provision of specific eligible measures. Situation F. Where an emergency occurs outside the jurisdiction of the State of Western Australia. Situation G. An emergency response where an agencies/organisations funding does not meet the criteria of Situation s A F. Where no prior arrangement has been made with FESA, such as in Situation D, only expenditure approved by the IC, OAM or SOC will be funded by FESA. 4.14 Contact Arrangements The key organisations participating in this plan are shown at Appendix D. Ongoing contact with these organisations shall be through Liaison Officers appointed by each organisation. Detailed contact arrangements for activation of WESTPLAN-Flood and for communication with Liaison Officers are held by FESA. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 28

5 RECOVERY Recovery management is the coordinated process of supporting emergency affected communities in the reconstruction and restoration of physical infrastructure, the environment and community, psychosocial, and economic wellbeing. (Emergency Management Act 2005) 5.1 Responsibility for Recovery It is a function of local government to manage recovery following an emergency affecting the community in its district. (Emergency Management Act 2005, Section 36(b)). FESA is responsible for ensuring an effective recovery process is initiated. In order to facilitate the effective coordination of the recovery process, it is essential that an assessment of the recovery and restoration requirements be conducted as soon as possible after the impact of the event. 5.2 Transition to Recovery Recovery activities should commence during the response phase and often there will be no clear transition point from one element to the other. The response element is considered to be in place until at least the following conditions are met: all rescues have been accomplished; all injured have been attended to; all the displaced people have been provided with shelter; the essential public services, such as water and power, have been restored; temporary repairs have been made to designated buildings; and physical and electronic communications have been largely restored. The decision to move from the response to the recovery phase, and the procedures for the hand-over between the two phases is the joint responsibility of local government and FESA. In the absence of local recovery plans or arrangements, FESA shall initiate action to establish suitable arrangements during the response element. This includes maintaining community information until handover has occurred. 5.2.1 Specific On-site Recovery In response to the impact assessment, resources from State Government, regional sources or, and other external supplier may be deployed to assist the affected community. In addition to the deployment of these resources, support may also be provided by the activation of State Emergency Management Plans. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 29

The restoration and reconstruction of essential services (e.g. roads, transport, water, sewerage, electricity and waste disposal) will remain the responsibility of the agencies with the normal/existing responsibility for the provision of those services. The removal and disposal of waste is the responsibility of local governments (LG s) operating in accordance with Department of Environment and Conservation licensing conditions. FESA will liaise with Environmental Protection Authorities and LG s where the waste is deemed to be hazardous to ensure the hazardous waste is managed in a safe and effective manner. Where the waste is not deemed to be hazardous, local government is responsible. 5.2.2 State Level Recovery Coordination The extent of recovery activity will depend on the nature and magnitude of the emergency. In some circumstances, it may be necessary for the State Government to assume responsibility for coordinating the recovery process at a whole-of government level. A Recovery Services Sub-Committee (RSS) was established by SEMC to oversee the planning and operation of state-level recovery coordination. The Chair of the RSS will make the decision to activate state-level recovery arrangements following consultation with FESA. If it is considered that extraordinary arrangements are required for a specific emergency, the Chair RSS may recommend to Government the appointment of a specialist State Recovery Coordinator to ensure the provision of coordinated support to emergency affected communities by public authorities and other persons. 5.2.3 Community Recovery Local government is responsible for managing community recovery, including the appointment of a Local Recovery Coordinator who shall lead the Local Recovery Committee, and activate the Local Recovery Plan. 5.3 Stand Down and Debriefs This plan will remain active whilst the SECG is activated. The Plan may be de-activated when: the SECG is stood down; and where the OAM identifies that there is no longer a requirement for the plan to remain active. 5.4 Incident Analysis / Review FESA can conduct up to three levels of post incident analysis following operational incidents. These are: Operational Debrief Post Incident Analysis Major Incident Review WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 30

The level of analysis required will be determined by the FESA Chief Operations Officer in accordance with FESA Incident Analysis Policy. The Operational Area Manager/Incident Controller will ensure that all agencies involved in a multi - agency emergency are provided the opportunity to submit input into any post operational analysis. Upon acceptance of recommendations an implementation schedule is to be developed and monitored for timely completion. Post Operation Reports shall be provided to SEMC in accordance with SEMC Policy Number 4.3. 5.4.1 Investigation/Assessment Where FESA identifies any issue which has, or is reasonably believed to have, contributed to the impact of the emergency upon the community an investigation may be conducted into that cause. The purpose of the investigation shall be to determine the issues leading to the event with the intent of developing mitigation prevention strategies to reduce the associated risk to the community. 5.4.2 Identifying Mitigation Strategies During the recovery process, the opportunity will be taken to implement mitigation and/or preventative strategies identified through the emergency risk management process. FESA will identify key areas in the community infrastructure that failed during the flood and will promote actions and/or studies designed to minimise the effects of floods on the community in the future. Examples of potential strategies include increasing building construction standards, improving land-use management and disasterhardening of key community facilities and utilities. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 31

6 APPENDICES APPENDIX A APPENDIX A - Distribution WESTPLAN-Flood is normally distributed in electronic form. The latest version is always available in the EMWA Section of the FESA website. The only hardcopy versions distributed are the library copies shown below. Addressees on this list will be advised by email when a new or amended version of the WESTPLAN is posted on the EMWA website. ORGANISATION Emergency Management Australia Fire & Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia Library Deposits (bound copies with contact details removed) State Government Ministers State Emergency Management Committee Combat / Support Organisations ADDRESSEES National Emergency Management Coordination Centre EMA Institute Library (2 Copies) Assistant Chief Operations Officer, SES Metropolitan Assistant Chief Operations Officer Country Assistant Chief Operations Officer Fire Services Metropolitan Regional Director, Pilbara Regional Director, Kimberley Regional Director, Midwest/Gascoyne Regional Director, Goldfields/Midlands Regional Director, South West Regional Director, Great Southern National Library Of Australia, Legal Deposits Unit (2 Copies) State Library Of Western Australia, Battye Library (4 Copies) Minister For Police; Emergency Services; Road Safety. Minister for Water; Mental Health Minister For Planning; Culture and the Arts All Members All Subcommittee Members Secretary SEMC All agencies and organisations with responsibilities under this plan. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 32

APPENDIX B APPENDIX B - Glossary Terminology used throughout this document shall have the meaning as prescribed in Section 3 of the Emergency Management Act 2005 or as defined in the Western Australian Emergency Management Glossary 2009. The following additional definitions and abbreviations apply: Flood Warning Consultative Committee (FWCC) The Flood Warning Consultative Committee is a committee established by the Bureau of Meteorology to provide strategic advice to emergency management agencies and undertake planning for system and process improvements to ensure that flood warning in Western Australia is based on best practice. The Committee does not have an operational role. Refer to paragraph 1.6.1.1 for further detail. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 33

INTRODUCTION APPENDIX C - The Flood Hazard APPENDIX C Western Australia has immense differences in temperature ranges between the north and south of the State. These temperature ranges result in varied weather patterns and systems which can contain significant rain and create a potential for flooding. These complexities create many different types of flood situations. SEVERITY OF FLOODING The severity of flooding is classified by the Bureau of Meteorology into the following flood categories: Minor Flooding - Minor flooding effects can vary from water flowing down-hill into a few private dwellings to the threat of flood to low-lying areas next to watercourses which can result in the death of stock and damage to equipment. Minor flooding has the potential to cause inconvenience due to minor road closure and the submergence of lowlevel bridges. Moderate Flooding - In addition to the effects of minor flooding, moderate flooding can result in the need to evacuate numerous houses and may result in main traffic bridges being covered, denying access to towns or communities. Major Flooding - Major flooding has the capacity to cause significant disruption to communities. In addition to the effects of minor and moderate flooding, inundation of extensive rural areas, properties and towns are likely to be isolated due to road closer and numerous evacuations may be required. TYPES OF FLOODING Backwater Flooding When the mainstream is in flood, the river level at the junction of a tributary creek or river will cause water to back-up into the tributary. The addition of flood runoff from the tributary causes higher backwater levels in the lower reach of the tributary. This type of flooding is common in the metropolitan creeks and rivers. This type of flooding is regarded as a subset of riverine flooding. Canyon Flooding Canyon Flooding is caused by local heavy rainfall or rainfall from another area that flows into the canyon areas. As canyons are narrow the speed and height is unpredictable and water levels can go from centimetres to metres in a matter of minutes. With the increase of tourism in national parks and other non-urbanised areas, there is greater exposure to the risk of this type of flooding causing injury or loss of life. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 34

Cyclonic Storm Surge Cyclonic Storm Surge is an unusual tidal activity associated with Tropical Cyclones and is addressed in WESTPLAN - Cyclone. Dam Break Dam break includes the failure of dams, embankments and associated infrastructure. The Dambreak hazard is excluded from Westplan - Flood and is dealt with through other emergency management arrangements. Flash Flooding Flash flooding results from relatively short intense bursts of rainfall, commonly from thunderstorms, and can occur in almost all parts of WA. Because of the speed with which it occurs, this type of flooding poses one of the greatest threats to life and can result in significant damage to property as well as causing major social disruption. Flash flooding tends to be localised and it is difficult to provide effective warning. Levee Failure The greatest percentage of failures in earthen levees occurs because of failure by overtopping during extreme flood events. Most embankments endure some overtopping without failure, however any prolonged overtopping will inevitably lead to complete failure. For this reason, the failure may take several hours for the levee to be completely breached. Riverine Flooding Flooding of rivers in inland areas can spread from hundreds to thousands of square kilometres and may last for weeks. Floods in these areas can lead to major losses of stock and damage to crops, as well as extensive damage to road and rail links. Rural communities may be isolated for long periods. Food, fuel and other vital supplies, as well as food for live stock, may need to be provided via other means of transport. Tsunami Inundation Tsunami Inundation is a flooding of areas adjacent to the coast as the result of unusual tidal surges associated with Tsunami. This flooding is addressed in the State Tsunami Emergency Management Plan (WESTPLAN- Tsunami). Urban Stormwater Flooding Stormwater flooding is commonly taken to mean flooding arising from an overloaded or surcharged stormwater system. Stormwater drainage systems commonly consists of gutters, pits, pipes, overland flow paths and open drains that ultimately discharge into 'natural' drainage systems. The mainstream channel and stormwater flooding effects can also interact. Urban stormwater flooding is regarded as a type of flash flooding which is managed under local planning arrangements and is not addressed in this plan. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 35

APPENDIX D Introduction APPENDIX D - Roles and Responsibilities of Organisations The Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA), as the Hazard Management Agency (HMA), has the primary responsibility for managing flood effects in Western Australia. However, FESA requires the support and assistance of other organisations to ensure an integrated community response occurs. The organisations that have a direct responsibility in relation to the management or mitigation of flood in Western Australia are: Australian Bureau of Meteorology Department for Child Protection Department of Health Department of Water Emergency Management Committees Energy Suppliers and Network Managers Fire & Emergency Services Authority Local government* Main Roads WA TELSTRA WA Water Corporation Western Australia Police Agency Responsibilities The agencies will undertake the agreed responsibilities, as detailed below. All the agencies are to maintain appropriate internal plans and procedures in relation to the specific agency responsibilities. *Note: The capability and commitment of each local government to undertake the tasks and meet the responsibilities identified in this State Plan should be confirmed by the HMA and detailed in the Local Hazard Emergency Plan and/or Local Emergency Management Arrangements. This will ensure the varying capabilities of individual Local governments are recognised and agreed to by all parties. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 36

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARTICIPATING ORGANISATIONS Organisation Bureau of Meteorology Department for Child Protection Responsibilities a. Chair the Flood Warning Consultative Committee. b. Lead and maintain the Flood Warning Operational Group. c. Provide a flood prediction and interpretation service including advice and outlooks on meteorological forecasts, catchment conditions, rainfall and quantitative precipitation forecasts. Issue Flood Watch and Flood Warning messages. d. Participate in research and development of flood forecasting models and techniques to improve flood forecasts. e. Establish and maintain real-time rainfall data collection networks and monitoring and dissemination systems to meet the needs of the Flood Warning Operational Group. f. Store and provide historical water and flood intelligence data and information. g. Contribute to the planning, installation and maintenance of new and improved flood warning systems. h. Participate in community awareness programs on total flood warning systems. i. Maintain the operational infrastructure and systems of the Bureau of Meteorology and meet the full costs of dissemination of Flood Watch and Warning messages. j. Provide a Liaison Officer to the FESA State Operations Centre if requested. a. Management of services under WESTPLAN Welfare and WESTPLAN Registration & Reunification, as required. b. In consultation with FESA, and consideration of available department resources, determine the number and location of welfare centres to be opened during the emergency flood. c. In consultation with the Local Emergency Management Committee, determine a register of potential welfare centres. d. Staff Welfare/Evacuations centres. e. Register evacuees. f. Participate in the emergency recovery arrangements for people affected by floods. g. Provide a Liaison Officer to the FESA State Operations Centre, if requested. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 37

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARTICIPATING ORGANISATIONS (Continued) Organisation Responsibilities Department of Health Department of Water Emergency Management Committees Energy Suppliers and Network Managers a. Coordinate the health response in a flood situation, including the activation of Westplan-Health and Support Plans if required. b. Advise FESA on all medical and health aspects in relation to a flood situation c. Through the hospital stream, provide acute medical care and relief to injured persons. d. Through the public health stream, provide environmental health and communicable disease control services, as required. e. Provide acute mental health services, particularly to those persons within the affected community who have chronic conditions. f. Provide health advice and support to the designated recovery committee. g. Provide a Liaison Officer to the FESA State Operations Centre, if requested. a. Provide an appropriate representative on the Flood Warning Consultative Committee. b. Provide a qualified representative on the Flood Warning Operational Group (where practicable). c. Collect river level data and provide to the Flood Warning Operational Group (where practicable). d. Maintain real-time river level monitoring systems. e. Store and provide historical river flood information. f. Contribute to the planning, installation and maintenance of new and improved flood warning systems. g. Participate in community awareness programs on total flood warning systems. h. Provide a Liaison Officer to the FESA State Operations Centre, if requested. a. Assist emergency management planning in relation to floods. b. Provide emergency management advice to the appropriate local, regional or State Governments. a. Disconnect and restore energy services as prioritised by FESA or the designated recovery authority. Restoration priority will also be determined on other lifeline interdependence requirements. b. Provide technical advice to FESA in relation to energy supply, disconnection and restoration. c. Assist in the provision of emergency energy as requested by FESA or the designated recovery authority. d. Provide a Liaison Officer to the FESA State Operations Centre, if requested. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 38

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARTICIPATING ORGANISATIONS (Continued) Organisation Responsibilities Fire & Emergency Services Authority Local government a. Discharge the duties of a HMA, as per the Emergency Management Act 2005, and liaise with other HMAs to ensure response operations are coordinated. b. Ensure the development and maintenance of response and mitigation plans specific to floods. c. Periodically test and validate local, regional and State flood plans. d. Recommend the adoption of mitigation strategies to State, Regional and Local Emergency Management Committees. e. In cooperation with other agencies, provide communities with flood risk awareness, information and education. f. Raise, train and equip an emergency service capable of responding to the effects of a flood. g. Appoint emergency managers at all levels for a particular flood. h. Assist with the dissemination of Flood Watch and Flood Warning information and flood advice to the community. i. Provide an appropriate representative on the Flood Warning Consultative Committee. j. Chair regional flood planning committees. k. Assist with the relocation of those made homeless by flooding. l. Assist communities in the recovery process. a. Provide an appropriate representative on the Flood Warning Consultative Committee. b. Provide resources to assist FESA when requested. c. Make available suitable local government buildings to be used as welfare shelters. d. Issue closure notices for airports and airfields when necessary. e. Close and open roads within their jurisdiction, when requested by the appropriate authority. f. Provide details on road conditions to FESA. g. Lead the community recovery process. h. Participate in improving flood warning systems to communities (as required). i. Inspect flood affected properties and ascertain fitness for habitation. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 39

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARTICIPATING ORGANISATIONS (Continued) Organisation Responsibilities Main Roads WA a. Provide an appropriate representative on the Flood Warning Consultative Committee. b. Provide a qualified representative on the Flood Warning Operational Group (where practicable). c. Provide advice to FESA and the Flood Warning Operational Group on the potential flooding impacts on the road system. This includes details on road conditions, including alternative routes when major routes have been cut by flooding or are likely to be cut by flooding. d. Close and open roads when requested to do so by FESA. This Plan recognises that the Commissioner of Main Roads (or delegated Officers) has the power to close or open roads under the Main Roads Act 1930. e. Assist in the recovery process through road and road infrastructure repair and reconstruction. f. Communicate road closures to the public. g. Provide a Liaison Officer to the FESA State Operations Centre, if requested. Telstra a. Provide advice regarding the provision of emergency communications services. b. Provide a Telstra Emergency Service Liaison Officer whose responsibilities include alerting Telstra Personnel. c. Take into consideration the emergency communications requirements and priorities of authorities responsible for hazard and emergency management within WA. Actual service provision and restoration priorities will depend on Telstra s network configuration, the safety and availability of staff, material availability, local community issues and national and local security issues. d. Provide a Liaison Officer to the FESA State Operations Centre, if requested. Western Australia Police a. Assist FESA to warn communities. b. Support FESA in conducting evacuations. c. Provide security of evacuated areas. d. In the event of mass casualties, provide Disaster Victim Identification. e. Assist with road traffic management where appropriate. f. Maintain public order where required. g. Provide a Liaison Officer to the FESA State Operations Centre, if requested. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 40

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARTICIPATING ORGANISATIONS (Continued) Organisation WA Water Corporation Responsibilities a. Provide an appropriate representative on the Flood Warning Consultative Committee (where practicable). b. Provide a qualified representative on the Flood Warning Operational Group (where practicable). c. Restore water supplies and sewerage systems as prioritised by FESA or the designated recovery agency. d. Ensure water quality delivered by the system meets appropriate health standards. e. Provide a Liaison Officer to the FESA State Operations Centre, if requested. f. Assist with the provision of potable water supplies where required. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 41

APPENDIX E - Operational Sequence Guide Flood Phase 1 ALERT (Notification that a flood response operation is pending.) # BoM Warning Message 1.1 Flood Watch Flood Watch provides information to generate early awareness of developing hydro meteorological conditions, which may lead to possible or likely flooding in a particular district during the next 24 to 72 hours. Messages will make short generalised statements about the developing weather situation, including forecast rainfall totals, the current state of the catchments and an indication of the rivers at risk from flooding. Flood Watch enables people and the community to take action to increase safety and reduce the costs associated with flooding. FESA ACTIONS a. On receipt of advice from FWC and, where it is assessed that the level of response to an emergency may involve State level resources, FESA will notify appropriate FESA personnel in accordance with the FESA Emergency Management Co-ordination Guidelines. b. Should FESA receive advice of a flood from a source other than the FWC, then FESA will ensure the FWC is aware of the event and will continue to obtain and disseminate up-to-date information from the FWC. c. FESA may activate appropriate arrangements under WESTPLAN-Flood and will notify relevant agencies with roles and responsibilities under the Plan. Combat and Support Organisations a. Receive operational information on the situation and distribute it within their organisation. b. Ensure relevant equipment and staff is available for deployment. c. Ensure ongoing availability of Liaison Officers. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 42

Operational Sequence Guide Flood (continued) Phase 2 CALL OUT (Mobilisation of the flood response operation.) # BoM Warning Message 2.1 Flood Warning Flood Warning provides information to enable timely appropriate action to be taken when flooding is anticipated or occurring. Messages are issued for specific river basins and, where possible, will provide forecast rainfall and river levels. A Flood Warning aims to provide sufficient information to explain what is happening, where it is happening, how it will affect the recipient of the message and what possible evasive actions could be employed. FESA ACTIONS a. Should it appear likely that the flood will become a level 2 or level 3 event, FESA will: brief appropriate FESA Staff appoint an Operational Area Manager(s) responsible for the overall management of the flood operation area and the provision of strategic direction to both agencies and the Incident Controller(s). ensure that an assessment of the recovery and restoration requirements is conducted as soon as possible after the impact of the event; and maintain liaison with Agency Liaison Officers. b. Operational Area Manager(s) will appoint an Incident Controller(s), responsible for the overall management and control of an incident and the tasking of agencies in accordance with the situation. The Incident Controller(s) is responsible to the Operational Area Manager. Combat and Support Organisations a. Provide Liaison Officers as required. b. Deploy personnel as required. c. Fulfill role and responsibilities as outlined in WESTPLAN Flood. d. Maintain liaison with FESA. c. FESA shall determine the requirement for state assistance and activate State Support Plans as required. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 43

Operational Sequence Guide Flood (continued) Phase 3 STAND DOWN (Completion of the flood response operation) # BoM Warning Message FESA ACTIONS 3.1 N/A a. FESA shall inform participating agencies and hand over to the State / Local Recovery Coordinator when the following conditions have been met: all rescues have been accomplished; all injured have been attended to; Combat and Support Organisations a. Organisations are stood down in accordance with relevant procedures for each organisation. b. Recovery activities in accordance with associated plans continue. all the displaced people have been provided with shelter; the essential public services, such as water and power, have been restored; temporary repairs have been made to designated buildings; and physical and electronic communications have been largely restored. WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 44

APPENDIX F - Operational Management Structure APPENDIX F Level 1 Incident - Example: (Figure 1) INCIDENT MANAGEMENT TEAM Safety Advisor Incident Controller PLANNING OPERATIONS LOGISTICS TEAM 1 TEAM 2 TEAM 3 Level 2 Incident - Example: (Figure 2) Safety Advisor INCIDENT MANAGEMENT TEAM Incident Controller AIIMS Level 2 Incident Support Group Local Agencies PLANNING AIIMS Planning Officer OPERATIONS AIIMS Operations Officer LOGISTICS AIIMS Logistics Officer Division 1 Division 2 A D G J B E H K C F I L WESTPLAN Flood Amendment 2-2010 45

Level 3 Incident: - Example: (Figure 3) FESA State Duty Director FESA State Operations Centre Operational Area Manager (L3) Regional Operations Centre State Emergency Co-ordination Group Agency Reps (State) Operational Area Support Group Agency Reps (District) ISG Incident Controller Safety Advisor ISG Incident Controller Safety Advisor ISG Incident Controller Safety Advisor PLN OPS LOGS PLN OPS LOGS PLN OPS LOGS ISG Incident Controller Safety Advisor ISG Incident Controller Safety Advisor PLN OPS LOGS PLN OPS LOGS