- Published:
- Tuesday 7 July 2015
Victoria and the State of California today signed a historic agreement that will help make both states safer during disasters through the sharing of expertise, technical knowledge and training in bushfire and flood management.
The Minister for Emergency Services, Jane Garrett, and Emergency Management Commissioner, Craig Lapsley, joined the Director of the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and Governor Brown’s Homeland Security Advisor (Cal OES), Mark Ghilarducci, to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Sacramento.
The MOU provides a broad framework for cooperation and support between the two states and encourages joint initiatives in emergency management which will help individuals, families, communities and businesses that have been impacted by disaster.
Both states share similar climates and conditions, as well as similar challenges during emergencies such as droughts, floods and bushfires.
Emergency Management Victoria plays a key role in implementing the Victorian Government’s emergency management initiatives before, during and after disasters.
Cal OES in California is founded in public service, and exists to protect lives, property and the environment by effectively preparing for, preventing, responding to, and recovering from all threats, crimes, hazards and emergencies.
The signing in Sacramento is part of Ms Garrett’s visit to the United States to study the latest technologies, capability and systems that will help Victoria to achieve its shared goal to build safer and more resilient communities.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services, Jane Garrett
“The Andrews Labor Government is proud to have a partnership with the State of California that will produce real and tangible outcomes to create safer communities in both states.”
“California’s emergency management agencies are renowned for their expertise and experience in disaster preparedness and this partnership allows Victoria to tap into that expertise.”
Quotes attributable to Emergency Management Commissioner, Craig Lapsley
“This agreement focuses on fostering the joint development of initiatives that support and promote improved service delivery to the community and improved capability to manage major emergencies.”
Quotes attributable to California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and Governor Brown’s Homeland Security Advisor (Cal OES), Mark Ghilarducci
“The similarities between California and Victoria’s climates and hazards create a mutually beneficial learning opportunity for our communities and governments.”