IGEM Report 1: 2017-18 - THE CYCLONE DEBBIE REVIEW

Inspector-General Emergency Management

Introduction

Approach

The review process aligns with the Emergency Management Assurance Framework . Specifically, the review of the System’s effectiveness is considered

We collected evidence from 80 entities (Appendix B) to inform this report and its findings. The sources of evidence for this review have included:

against the Standard for Disaster Management in Queensland (the Standard).

• attending 22 formal debrief sessions undertaken by local, district and state disaster management groups,

Considering the track and impact of this weather system, the review looked at three key facets of Debbie: • the direct cyclone impact in North Queensland, • the rapid-onset weather conditions after the cyclone’s coastal crossing, in particular within South East Queensland, and • the slow-onset flooding experienced in the Rockhampton area. In considering these three interconnected, and at times concurrent events, we also considered disaster management operations at a state level and the integration of disaster management functions at the local and district levels of the System. We have not considered the performance of individual state government agencies or disaster management groups. We have, however, highlighted examples of good practice that we have seen, with the view that others may seek out more information and further share experiences. The review has been undertaken within the framework of the current legislation and arrangements. The review does not consider the significant longer term recovery efforts instituted in the wake of Debbie.

• engaging with entities, including Local Disaster

Management Groups (LDMGs), District Disaster Management Groups (DDMGs), and state government, non-government and commonwealth agencies, • reviewing policy, plans and other associated data that supports disaster management activities, • analysing specific data related to Debbie, e.g. Emergency Alert campaigns, • researching good practice evidence and case studies to inform identified themes for improvement, and • analysing previous reviews undertaken by the Office and other entities. In addition, an experienced and independent market research company was engaged to undertake a community survey of 1,200 residents from impacted communities regarding their experiences of the event and other factors related to disaster management. The report, Quantitative Research with Community Members (community survey), is available online on the IGEM website at www.igem.qld.gov.au During the review we liaised closely with QFES, the QPS, the Disaster Management Interdepartmental Committee (DMIDC) and impacted local governments. Draft findings and recommendations were considered by all key stakeholders who provided input into the review process. Feedback is reflected in the final report.

Emergency Management Assurance Framework

The Emergency Management Assurance Framework supports accountability and builds consistency across all levels of the disaster management arrangements and reinforces a shared responsibility for delivering better disaster management outcomes for the community. Source: IGEM

Notes Source links for the Emergency Management Assurance Framework and the Standard for Disaster Management in Queensland (the Standard) are:

• https://www.igem.qld.gov.au/assurance-framework/Pages/default.aspx • https://www.igem.qld.gov.au/assurance-framework/Pages/standard.aspx

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The Cyclone Debbie Review

Lessons for delivering value and confidence through trust and empowerment