The Hon. V.A. TARZIA (Hartley—Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services) (17:29): I would like to thank all members who have contributed to the debate on the bill. I also thank the South Australian Fire and Emergency Services Commission for their work in developing the bill. I would like to reflect back on the comments in the independent review into the 2019-20 bushfire season, which outline SAFECOM's enabling role to allocate resources effectively across the emergency services sector, ensure appropriate levels of strategic and admin support to the emergency services agencies, ensure appropriate risk management systems and practices are in place, and ensure effective consultation with the community in relation to the FES Act.
As we heard, the bill intends to appoint an independent chair to the SAFECOM board. It also provides visibility to parliament on the activities of the State Bushfire Coordination Committee, which has an important role in the strategic oversight and coordination of bushfire management activities.
The government has acted quickly to introduce these amendments to the existing legislation to implement governance and capability improvements. This demonstrates our commitment and appreciation of emergency services volunteers and our commitment to create a safer and more bushfire-resilient community in the future. I thank members on both sides of the chamber for their comments and their support, and I commend the bill to the house.
Bill read a second time.
