state and regional fire operations centres … it will be necessary to increase the level/s of...

TFS Chief Officer’s Command Doctrine (COCD)

COMMAND AND CONTROL

COMMAND S.1.3 State and Regional Fire Operations Centres – Command and Control Arrangements

State and Regional Fire Operations Centres

Command and Control Arrangements

Photograph courtesy Warren Frey


S.1.3_StateandRegionalFireOperationsCentreArrangementsV4.0.docx

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Effective Date: 17/11/2014 Review Date: 17/11/2016 © Tasmania Fire Service

Tasmania Fire Service acknowledges the assistance given by the Fire Services Commissioner – Victoria and the South Australian Country Fire Service in the development of these Arrangements.

Contents 1. DEFINITIONS. THE FOLLOWING DEFINITIONS APPLY TO THE ARRANGEMENTS: ........................................................................................................... 4

2. STATE FIRE OPERATIONS ...................................................................................... 6

2.1 COMMAND AND CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS ................................................................................................................ 6 2.2 PURPOSE .............................................................................................................................................................. 6 2.3 AUTHORITY ........................................................................................................................................................... 6

3. COMMAND AND CONTROL PRINCIPLES ............................................................... 7

3.1 GOVERNANCE ........................................................................................................................................................ 7 3.2 CHAIN OF COMMAND ............................................................................................................................................. 8 3.3 CONTROL .............................................................................................................................................................. 8

3.3.1 Incident Controller ......................................................................................................................................... 8 3.3.2 Regional Fire Controller ................................................................................................................................. 9 3.3.3 State Fire Controller ...................................................................................................................................... 9

3.4 STRATEGIC INTENT .................................................................................................................................................. 9 3.5 USE OF AIIMS AND CICS PRINCIPLES ....................................................................................................................... 10 3.6 COLLABORATIVE APPROACH ................................................................................................................................... 10 3.7 LOCAL KNOWLEDGE .............................................................................................................................................. 11

4. PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE ...................................................................... 11

4.1 PREPAREDNESS .................................................................................................................................................... 11 4.1.1 Inter-agency arrangements ................................................................................................................... 11 4.1.2 Readiness ............................................................................................................................................... 11

4.2 BUSHFIRE RESPONSE ............................................................................................................................................. 12 4.2.1 Resource management .......................................................................................................................... 13 4.2.2 Records management ............................................................................................................................ 13

5. STATE FIRE OPERATIONS CENTRE .................................................................... 13

5.1 FUNCTIONAL ROLES AND SUPPORT WITHIN THE STATE FIRE OPERATIONS CENTRE ............................................................. 13 5.2 STRUCTURE OF THE STATE FIRE OPERATIONS TEAM ..................................................................................................... 14 5.3 ROLE .................................................................................................................................................................. 14

6. REGIONAL FIRE OPERATIONS CENTRE ............................................................. 15

6.1 FUNCTIONAL ROLES AND SUPPORT WITHIN THE REGIONAL FIRE OPERATIONS CENTRE ....................................................... 15 6.2 STRUCTURE OF THE REGIONAL FIRE OPERATIONS TEAM ............................................................................................... 15 6.3 ROLE OF REGIONAL FIRE OPERATIONS CENTRE ........................................................................................................... 16

APPENDIX 1–GUIDELINES FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF REGIONAL FIRE OPERATIONS CENTRE ................................................................................................. 17

DAYS OF PREDICTED VERY HIGH FIRE DANGER (FDR 24-37 IN 3 STATIONS WITHIN A REGION) .......................................................... 17 DAYS OF TOTAL FIRE BAN ..................................................................................................................................................... 18

APPENDIX 2 – REGIONAL FIRE CONTROLLER CHECKLIST .................................... 19

APPENDIX 3 – ROLE DESCRIPTORS STATE LEVEL .................................................. 26



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STATE FIRE CONTROLLER ...................................................................................................................................................... 26 DEPUTY STATE FIRE CONTROLLER .......................................................................................................................................... 27 STATE FIRE OPERATIONS CENTRE EXECUTIVE OFFICER................................................................................................................ 28 STATE OPERATIONS COMMANDER ......................................................................................................................................... 30 STATE INTELLIGENCE OFFICER................................................................................................................................................ 31 STATE AIR OPERATIONS OFFICER ........................................................................................................................................... 32 STATE PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER .................................................................................................................................... 33 STATE G.I.S OFFICER ........................................................................................................................................................... 34 STATE SAFETY ADVISOR ....................................................................................................................................................... 35 STATE RESOURCE OFFICER .................................................................................................................................................... 36 STATE EMERGENCY ALERT OFFICER ........................................................................................................................................ 37 STATE FBAN OFFICER ......................................................................................................................................................... 38 MULTI-AGENCY COORDINATING GROUP (MAC) ...................................................................................................................... 39

APPENDIX 4 – ROLE DESCRIPTORS AT REGIONAL LEVEL ..................................... 40

REGIONAL FIRE CONTROLLER ................................................................................................................................................ 40 INCIDENT SITUATION OFFICER ............................................................................................................................................... 40 PUBLIC INFORMATION ......................................................................................................................................................... 41 REGIONAL AIR OPERATIONS .................................................................................................................................................. 41 ADMIN SUPPORT ................................................................................................................................................................ 42

APPENDIX 5 – RFOC DAILY PLANNING SCHEDULE ................................................. 43

APPENDIX 6 – RFOC AGENDA ..................................................................................... 44

APPENDIX 7 – SFOC DAILY PLANNING SCHEDULE .................................................. 45

APPENDIX 8 – SFOC AGENDA ..................................................................................... 46

APPENDIX 9 – SFOC OPERATIONS TEAM ORGANISATIONAL CHART ................... 48



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1. Definitions. The following definitions apply to the Arrangements: o Bushfire is an unplanned fire primarily in vegetation such as grass, forest and/or scrub

o Bushfire season refers to the period defined by the declaration of a Fire Permit Period, unless otherwise determined by the Chief Officer.

o Chain of command refers to the authority within an organisation that clearly defines the lines of reporting and accountability.

o Chief Officer refers to the CEO of the TFS who has overall legislative responsibility for fires within Tasmania, and as defined in the Fire Service Act 1979.

o Command refers to the internal direction of the members and resources of an agency in the performance of the organisation’s roles and tasks. Command operates vertically within an organisation.

o Comprehensive approach refers to the consideration of prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery (PPRR) aspects of emergencies and their consequences.

o Complex of incidents refers to a number of incidents being managed by an Incident Management Team.

o Command Intent refers to the communication of mission objectives from the highest levels of emergency management down, empowering individuals to make critical decisions based on those objectives.

o Control refers to the overall direction of emergency management activities in an emergency situation. Authority for control is established in legislation or in an emergency plan and carries with it the responsibility for tasking other organisations in accordance with the needs of the situation. Control relates to situations and operates horizontally across organisations.

o Coordination involves the bringing together of organisations and other resources to support an emergency management response. It involves the systematic acquisition and application of resources (organisational, human and equipment) in an emergency situation.

o Districts refer to the District model and arrangements within each Region.

o Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAn) refers to specialists who develop and provide predominately bushfire prediction models.

o Functional roles are roles that form part of an Incident Management Team, usually includes an Incident Controller and any appointed Deputy Incident Controller/s, Safety Advisor, and any functional officers leading the sections of Planning, Operations, Logistics, Intelligence, Public Information, Investigation, Finance and Administration.

o High fire danger days are defined on the basis of forecast Fire Danger Ratings or State fire activity.

o Incident Action Plan (IAP) is the plan developed by the Incident Controller at all Levels of emergency management. This may take the form of a written plan or remain as part of the Incident Controllers thought processes, particularly in the early stages of an incident or in a fast moving dynamic situation.

o Incident Controller is the individual responsible for the management of all incident control activities across a whole incident or complex of incidents.



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o Incident Management Team/s is the group of incident management personnel appointed by the Chief Officer (Level III incidents), comprising of functional roles as the incident dictates.

o Land Management Agencies are the two agencies within Tasmania (FT and PWS) that have a responsibility for bushfire mitigation and control within State Forest and reserved land respectively.

o Levels refer to the hierarchical structures used within these Arrangements for emergency management.

o Line-of-control refers to the connection between the Controllers at all levels of State fire incident management.

o Major fire is defined as a large or complex fire which is usually classified as a Level III Incident. Level III incidents are characterised by degrees of complexity that may require the establishment of divisions for effective management of the situation. These incidents will usually involve delegation of all functions.

o Management Authority refers to the organisation responsible for providing guidance for aspects of comprehensive emergency management. This responsibility is often established in legislation and undertaken in partnership with other organisations. Management Authority is an adaptation of the term “Lead Combat Agency”.

o MAC is the Multi-Agency Coordination Group, with representation consisting of TFS, PWS and FT.

o Operational Priorities refers to the six operational priorities for when fire burn out of control

o Preparedness is the planned and coordinated measures that eliminate or reduce the frequency and/or consequences of emergencies.

o Rapid Impact Assessment. o Readiness refers to the arrangements the land management agencies have prepared

for during the bushfire season.

o Recovery is the coordinated process of supporting emergency-affected communities in the reconstruction of the physical infrastructure and restoration of emotional, social, economic and physical wellbeing.

o Regions refer to the three TFS regions – South, North and North-West.

o Regional Fire Controller/s is the Regional Chief or his delegate.

o Regional Fire Operations Centre refers to the physical location of the Regional Fire Operations Team (RFOT). The Regional Fire Controller is supported by the RFOT.

o Response refers to the planned and coordinated measures that resolve emergency incidents.

o Standard Emergency Warning Signal is a siren played for a few seconds at the beginning of a critical emergency warning message on radio or television, to warn the public in the event of major emergencies, including serious bushfires.

o State Fire Controller is the Chief Officer of the TFS, or his delegate. This position provides strategic leadership in response to emergency incidents (as defined within the TEMP) across Tasmania.



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o State Fire Operations Centre refers to the physical location of the State Fire Operations Team (SFOT). The State Fire Controller is supported by the SFOT.

2. State Fire Operations

2.1 Command and Control Arrangements Introduction To ensure a State-wide focus is maintained within Tasmania during increased times of emergency it will be necessary to increase the level/s of command, control and coordination. This includes all levels of Government, our emergency management partners, Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) Regions and the community continuing to be supported and well informed.

The TFS Command and Control Arrangements (Arrangements) define the State Fire Controller and State Fire Operations Centre (SFOC) arrangements for emergency management - within Tasmania, particularly in relation to TFS responsibilities outlined within the Tasmanian Emergency Management Plan (TEMP). The Arrangements also ensure we continue to maintain a comprehensive approach to fire emergencies – prevention, preparedness, response and recovery

In the development of the arrangements TFS has consulted with its partner Land Management Agencies (LMA); Forestry Tasmania (FT) and the Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) and other partner Emergency Management (EM) agencies within Police and Emergency Management. These arrangements provide additional information to that contained within the “Emergency Management Act 2006”, “Tasmanian Emergency Management Plan Issue 7.1” (TEMP) and the “Tasmanian Government Emergency Management Arrangements – A Guide for Ministers”.

The Arrangements will continue to be developed and reviewed as and when required.

2.2 Purpose The overall purpose of the Arrangements is to provide strategic direction and support to RFOC/s and IMT/s, as well as to outline the chain-of-command required during significant emergency incidents. The Arrangements will:

• Identify and clarify who has overall accountability for ensuring a comprehensive approach is maintained in relation to emergency incidents;

• Define the roles and responsibilities of functional positions within the SFOC;

• Ensure all our stakeholders continue to be well informed;

• Provide direction for the up-scaling of command and control arrangements within our Regions and State, and;

• Outline the working relationships required of our partner agencies to ensure a coordinated emergency management approach is ongoing.

2.3 Authority The authority for the Arrangements is drawn from the following legislation:

• Fire Service Act 1979

• Emergency Management Act 2006

• Tasmanian Emergency Management Plan – Issue 7



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• State Fire Protection Plan 2012

• Inter-Agency Fire Management Protocols

• Forest Management Act 2013

• National Parks and Reserves Management Act 2002 • C3 Arrangements in the State Crisis Centre

3. Command and Control Principles

3.1 Governance To ensure TFS provide required levels of decision making, support, stakeholder consultation and communication a tiered approach to emergency management will be implemented – State, Regional, District, and Local response level/s. Figure 1 below shows the command, control and coordination at each level.

Figure 1.

Ministerial Committee

State Emergency Management Committee (SEMC)

Security and Emergency Management Advisory Group (SEMAG)

State Fire Controller

Regional Incident Management Teams

Level III

Regional District/ Local Response

Regional Fire Controllers (South, North, North

West)

MAC (Bushfire)

EM Partners

(All Hazard – e.g. State Control Function)

INCIDENT OPERATIONS (Specific to TFS only)

WHOLE OF GOVERNMENT – TEMP ARRANGEMENTS



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3.2 Chain of Command Each Agency will maintain command of their own resources. However, during multi inter-agency incidents where TFS is the lead management authority the following hierarchy will apply:

• The Senior Commander within these Arrangements is the Chief Officer (or delegate) of the Tasmania Fire Service. Therefore, the Chief Officer (or delegate) assumes the role of State Fire Controller during fire related emergency incidents. Resources from other agencies may be requested to assist the State Fire Controller;

• Land Management Agencies are responsible for monitoring activities within their respective areas of response during the bushfire season;

• TFS Regional Chiefs, under the command of the Chief Officer, assume the role of Regional Fire Controller. Regional Chiefs may delegate this role; however, accountability is retained even though they are no longer directly responsible for undertaking the actual task. Resources from other agencies may be requested to assist Regional Fire Controller/s,

• Level III Incident Management Teams are appointed by the State Fire Controller. In a bushfire context, IMT’s at this level will be multi-agency and usually involve personnel and resources from TFS and Land Management Agencies. The State Fire Controller will formalise the appointment with the standard inter-agency “Letter of Appointment, within the first operational period”; and,

• During the bushfire season the MAC reports directly to the State Fire Controller on resource availability, anticipated demand and provide strategic input on State bushfire priorities.

• Specific TFS Chain of Command arrangements are further detailed in TFS Command Doctrine Publication S.1.1 TFS Chain of Command

3.3 Control Authority for control is established within the Fire Service Act 1979, in a fire context, and the Tasmanian Emergency Management Plan (TEMP) for all other emergencies. This allows for the tasking of other agencies dependant on the needs of the emergency incident. Control operates horizontally across agencies.

At each level of incident management a Controller is appointed. At the incident level the Incident Controller is responsible for the incident or a complex of incidents; Regional Fire Controllers oversee Regional activities and overall operational response; the State Fire Controller maintains a strategic overview of state-wide operational activities, providing strategic input and decision making at the highest levels (Whole of Government - Fire Operations).

3.3.1 Incident Controller The TFS Chief Officer endorses Level III Incident Controllers and Functional Officers based on their qualifications, skills, knowledge, experience and subsequent advice from the Multi-Agency Coordination Group (MAC) or the Inter-Agency Training Committee. Incident Controllers exercise command, control and coordination authority at the incident level.

Regional Fire Controllers will appoint a Level II Incident Controller/s for emergency incidents on private land, unallocated Crown Land and the Wellington Park.

FT and PWS will appoint Incident Controllers for Level II bushfires on State Forest and reserved land respectively.



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The State Fire Controller (Chief Officer) will appoint Level III Incident Controllers to incident/s based on the predicted fire danger risk and/or the potential for existing fire/s to develop into major fires. Specific roles and responsibilities within the TFS Incident Control System are further detailed in TFS Command Doctrine publications as applicable.

3.3.2 Regional Fire Controller During periods of high or expected high activity, or during complex incidents, the State Fire Controller, through the Regional Chiefs, ensures that a Regional Fire Controller is appointed. Regional Fire Controllers exercise command, control and coordination authority at the Regional level. Should a Regional Fire Controller not be appointed the respective Regional Chief assumes this role.

Regional Fire Controllers monitor the potential for incidents to develop through regular contact with IMT Incident Controllers or through District arrangements (TFS) and duty officers within FT and PWS.

3.3.3 State Fire Controller The State Fire Controller is responsible for the overall control of response activities in relation to all incidents where the TEMP identifies the TFS as the Management Authority, including bushfires that have the potential to develop into major fires, in Tasmania. The Chief Officer may delegate the responsibility of State Fire Controller.

The State Fire Controller continues to monitor the potential of all incidents within Tasmania through regular contact with Regional Fire Controllers and Level III Incident Controllers. Contact with support agency liaison and whole of government will be ongoing.

Where there is potential for a significant emergency event to occur or a significant emergency incident is imminent, The State Fire Controller will stand up the SFOC to support the early coordination and management of the incident/s and support Regional Fire Controllers and/or IMT/s when they have been engaged.

3.4 Strategic Intent The following descriptions relate to the ‘Operational Priorities – When bushfires burn out of control’. The operational priorities may form the basis of the State Fire Controllers “Command Intent” particularly on days when fires are uncontrollable. 1. Issue warnings - Gather, analyse and disseminate information on current and predicted

fire location, direction and rate of spread, and issue relevant and tailored warnings to those communities threatened by fire to assist community members to make informed decisions about their safety.

2. Protect vulnerable people – Protect vulnerable people who may be gathered in schools, nursing homes, community shelters, nearby safer places and the like. This includes:

a. safety of emergency services personnel, and b. safety of community members including vulnerable community members and

visitors / tourist located within the incident area. 3. Protection valuable community assets – Protect key vulnerable community assets and

critical infrastructure that supports community resilience. This necessitates the identification of assets that particular community’s value, mitigation of their vulnerability, and the assignment of crews to protect them when fires threaten.

4. Stop building to building ignition - Stop the spread of fire in built-up areas through building-to-building ignitions. Options to enable this to be done rapidly should be explored so that resources are not tied up for extended periods at individual homes or buildings.



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5. Protect other community assets - Applying TFS triage policy, defend ‘buildings and other assets defendable by firefighters’, firefighters should not defend assets that cannot be defended safely. Focus should be on supporting individual livelihoods and economic production that supports individual and community financial sustainability and environmental and conservation assets that consider the cultural, biodiversity, and social values of the environment.

6. Focus on firefighting once conditions moderate - On severe to catastrophic days only when conditions have moderated should attention turn to containing and extinguishing the fire. Strategies should also consider patrol of residential areas to detect post fire front building ignitions.

3.5 Use of AIIMS and CICS principles TFS and Land Management Agencies are committed to using the principles of the Australasian Inter-service Incident Management System (AIIMS) and the Common Incident Control System (CICS) to manage fires and other emergency incidents within Tasmania.

The principles are:

Flexibility – Given the universal principles of an ‘all hazards-all agencies’ approach to emergency management, taking a flexible approach to the application of AIIMS is essential. The system must be able to be applied across the full spectrum of incidents, where the nature of the hazard, the scale of the incident, the complexities present, number of agencies involved, and the duration can all vary.

Management by Objectives – At any point in time, each incident can only have one set of objectives and one IAP for achieving set objectives. The Incident Controller determines the objectives after consideration of the State Fire Controllers strategic intent. Functional Management – An Incident Controller is appointed for every incident and is responsible and accountable for all the functions of incident management. The Incident Controller may delegate one or more functional roles as the incident dictates or as outlined in agency arrangements. Unity of Command – A principle of management states that each individual should report to only one supervisor. In the context of incident management it is extended to the idea that there is only one Incident Controller for any incident, directing and coordinating all emergency response. Span of Control – The Incident Controller establishes a management structure for the control of fires and other emergency incidents. Span of control relates to the number of groups or individuals that can be successfully supervised by one person – nominally this ratio is 1 – 5.

Controllers at all levels of incident management will apply the principles of AIIMS.

3.6 Collaborative Approach TFS is committed to collaborative arrangements with other Emergency Management partners in an all hazards context. At all times the TFS will work collaboratively with partner agencies, utilising the combined resources within each agency to mitigate emergencies to ensure the most efficient and cost effective approach is undertaken.

During times of bushfire activity the TFS and Land Management Agencies will work collaboratively, utilising their combined resources in the most efficient and cost effective way, ensuring the Tasmanian community is provided with a seamless approach to, in particular, bushfire management.



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In anticipation of a multi-agency response, and as far as practically possible, the preparation of systems, structures and resources will be developed using a joint approach. This is particularly important in the appointment of personnel based on their skills, qualifications and experience – regardless of their agency.

3.7 Local Knowledge Local knowledge and experience is integral to continuous improvement relating to incident management. Wherever practically possible, local knowledge expertise will be imbedded within all levels of Incident Management.

4. Preparedness and Response

4.1 Preparedness

4.1.1 Inter-agency arrangements TFS and Land Management Agencies will continue to prepare bushfire arrangements prior to the bushfire season (refer Inter-Agency Fire Management Protocol). This will be coordinated through the MAC. These arrangements will include, but not be limited to:

• Reviewing the Inter-Agency Fire Management Protocol;

• Ensuring there is an appropriate firefighting response capability;

• Ensuring Incident Management Team skills, knowledge and qualifications reflect Level III functional and unit requirements; and,

• Reviewing systems and processes within a bushfire context in support of inter-agency incident management.

The Inter-Agency Training Committee is responsible for:

• Advising the MAC on the level of Incident Management Team bushfire capability for functional roles across the three agencies;

• Coordinating and supporting learning and development to ensure that bushfire Incident Management Team skills, knowledge and qualifications reflect Level III functional and unit requirements; and,

• Recommending to the Chief Officer the endorsement of individuals to Level III functional roles.

4.1.2 Readiness Readiness relates to establishing suitable direction and support to all levels of control based on current and/or predicted fire development. The State Fire Controller, in consultation with the Regional Fire Controllers and MAC, will stand up the State Fire Operations Centre and confirm that Regional Fire Operations are in a state of readiness. This should include:

• Ensuring staffing requirements have been determined and physical resources are ‘stood up’ and facilities tested in both SFOC and RFOC/s; Refer appendix 1

• Incident Control Centre’s have been identified, ‘stood up’ and IMT personnel identified and physical resourcing requirements completed.

• Strike team/s identified and placed in strategic locations; and,

• Communication on current and predicted developments continues with stakeholders and EM partners.



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At the State level the State Fire Controller will elevate levels of readiness when (but not limited to):

• More than one Region has a Regional Fire Control Centre ‘stood up’ with no significant fire activity;

• There is a Level III IMT working within a Region;

• There is significant fire activity in one or more Regions;

• FDI’s are predicted to reach higher than 37 (TFB declared) in one or more Regions; or,

• When the State Fire Controller believes there is a need and issues a direction.

The “Regional Fire Operations Centre” document should be referred to for Regional arrangements.

4.2 Bushfire response • Bushfire response relates to an unplanned fire primarily in vegetation such as grass,

forest and/or scrub.

• In line with the Inter-Agency Fire Management Protocol the guiding principle is that: “the most able firefighting crew of any agency will respond immediately to a reported fire as a priority”, regardless of the land tenure involved.

• First response arrangements will be managed and monitored by TFS, PWS and FT in accordance with the Inter-Agency Fire Management Protocol. The MAC will maintain communication with the State Fire Controller and/or Regional Fire Controller/s regarding the potential of a fire to become a major fire and the possible need to escalate to the next level.

Fire potential is based on risk assessment principles and the possible implications relevant to the Operational Priorities.

The following applies to bushfires where the TFS is the responsible agency, that is, private land, unallocated Crown land and the Wellington Park;

• Escalation to the Regional level is determined by the Regional Fire Controller where the first response is unlikely to succeed or has failed. Regional Fire Controllers will exercise control authority and escalate the incident to the next level and engage an IMT. Level II Incident Controllers will report directly to the Regional Fire Controller.

• In escalating an incident to either a level II or a Level III IMT the Regional Fire Controller and/or State Fire Controller will provide a tactical IAP that includes a current fire boundary map, resources currently deployed and details identified objectives and strategies currently being implemented.

• Escalation to the State level for fires on all tenure is determined by the State Fire Controller who will analyse the potential of all bushfires within the State to become major fires through regular contact with the Regional Fire Controllers and MAC. The State Fire Controller will exercise authority of all fires at the State level with Level III Incident Controllers reporting through Regional Controllers to the State Fire Controller. Should incident activity or complexity require it the State Fire Controller, through consultation with Regional Fire Controllers, may require level III incident controllers to report directly to the State Fire Controller.



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4.2.1 Resource management Incident Controllers are responsible for providing the command, control and coordination required of resources responded to incidents. Incident Controllers are also responsible for requesting and/or releasing resources as the incident dictates.

Resource requests should follow the same chain of command illustrated in Figure 1.

Resource requests will be directed to the Regional Fire Controller for all Level II incidents for which TFS has responsibility and in the first instance for all Level III incidents.

The Regional Fire Controller will refer resource requests that cannot be filled within Regional resources to the State Fire Controller. The State Fire Controller will coordinate the filling of these resource requests from;

• Other TFS Regions; • FT and PWS via the MAC representatives; • Other agencies and/or contractors; and; • Interstate and international resources.

Resource requests for Level II bushfires which PWS has suppression responsibility should be directed to the PWS Fire Duty Officer in the first instance.

Resource requests for Level II bushfire for which FT has suppression responsibility should be directed to the appropriate District Fire Duty Officer.

At the Regional level Regional Fire Controllers will prioritise resource deployment across respective Regions. At the State level the State Fire Controller, in consultation with the Regional Fire Controllers and MAC, will prioritise resource allocation across the State.

MAC will assist both Regional and State resource requests, as per the Inter-Agency Fire Management Protocol.

4.2.2 Records management Controllers at all Levels must have a process in place for recording their decisions and those made within IMT’s, Regional Fire Operations Centres and the State Fire Operations Centre. A process for maintaining and storing these records must be established with all records finalised prior to the incident/s being closed, this is the responsibility of Controllers at all Levels of incident management.

5. State Fire Operations Centre The State Fire Controller is to be supported by the State Fire Management Team who will assist and provide advice to the State Fire Controller at the strategic level. The State Fire Management Team may comprise of the following functional roles, utilising suitably qualified and experienced persons from the TFS, other agencies and/or organisations as required.

5.1 Functional Roles and Support within the State Fire Operations Centre State Fire Controller State Resource Officer Deputy State Fire Controller

Executive Officer SFOC

State Safety Advisor

State Operations/Planning Commander

State Fire Behavior Analyst Officer

State GIS Officer State Emergency Alert Officer



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State Public Information / Media Officer State Air Operations Officer

State Intelligence Officer

5.2 Structure of the State Fire Operations Team

Figure 2.

In addition to the bushfire risks the State Fire Controller will also seek additional agency / stakeholder liaison (SES, TasPol, AT), executive / administrative support and other functional roles to effectively and efficiently manage Statewide operations and recovery support on a needs basis

The State Fire Controller may activate the State Fire Operations Centre during major urban, hazmat or rescue incidents. In addition, requests for assistance from other EM agencies, States or organisations will be centrally coordinated and administered e.g. interstate and/or intrastate deployment, bio hazard management, flooding etc. Refer TEMP.

The State Fire Control Centre is to be maintained and ready for activation at all times.

5.3 Role The State Fire Operations Team provides strategic advice to the State Fire Controller in the following areas:

Safety of personnel and communities;

Readiness levels;

Key appointments

State Fire Controller

State Intelligence Officer

State GIS Officer

State Fire Behaviour Analyst

Officer

State Resource Officer

State Operations Commander

State Air Operations

Officer

State Public Information

Officer

State Emergency Alert Officer

Multi-Agency Coordinating

Group

Deputy State Fire Controller

State Safety Advisor

Executive Officer SFOC



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Public information and warning coordination and effectiveness;

• Critical infrastructure and/or community assets;

• Possible areas for local community members, tourists etc. to gather;

• Strategic risks and consequences, in line with our Organisational Priorities;

• Resourcing priorities;

• Ongoing costs associated with aircraft and machinery;

• Information and intelligence reports that ensure whole of government situational awareness and early recovery arrangements can be implemented;

• Inter/intrastate resource requests and/or international support requirements;

• Span of control within the State Fire Control Centre; and,

• The functioning and operation of systems and technology to support incident management.

6. Regional Fire Operations Centre The Regional Fire Controller may be supported by a Regional Fire Operations Team who will assist the Regional Fire Controller at the strategic level. The Regional Fire Operations Team may comprise of the following functional roles, utilising suitably qualified and experienced persons from the TFS regions.

6.1 Functional Roles and Support within the Regional Fire Operations Centre Regional Fire Controller Management / Admin Support Public Information Regional Resourcing Officer

Regional Air Operations Officer Regional Intelligence Officer

6.2 Structure of the Regional Fire Operations Team

EM & Stakeholder

Liaison/s

Regional Fire Controller

Regional Intelligence

Officer (FBAn)Admin Support

IRMS

Resourcing

Public Information Regional Air Operations

Admin Support



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6.3 Role of Regional Fire Operations Centre • Safety of personnel and communities • Regional preparedness • Strike team establishment and strategic placement • Monitor weather and disseminate updates as required • Provide Planning and Logistical support to developing Level 1& 2 Incidents • Develop and disseminate Community Advice/Alerts/Warnings • Provide web/social media updates on regional fire activity • Coordinate Regional responses according to priority and risk • Liaise with partner EM agencies/stakeholders • Provide regional contact point for established IMTs • Report regional status and resource commitment updates to SFOC



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Appendix 1–Guidelines for establishment of Regional Fire Operations Centre

Days of predicted Very High Fire Danger (FDR 24-37 in 3 stations within a region) Days of forecast very high fire danger (FDR>24) in any region will provide the trigger for regional management to discuss the potential fire risk within their region with respect to establishing a Regional Fire Operations Centre. The decision to establish an ROFC may be based on the following considerations:

• Number of fires currently burning within the region • “Lead-in” and lead-out” weather • Maximum FDR to be reached • Hours FDR will remain >24

Should a decision be made to “stand-up” a RFOC, as a minimum the RFOC will consist of the following personnel:

• Regional Fire Controller o Admin Support

Regional management will determine the need to “stand-up” additional RFOC personnel based on elevated forecast Fire Danger Ratings (FDR’s) and/or current levels of fire activity in each region. Consideration should be given to the following roles:

• Public Information Officer • Administration support / IRMS • Intelligence Officer / Resourcing • Air Operations Manager [if applicable]

o Air attack supervisor [if applicable] o Air base manager [if applicable] o Air Observer [if applicable] o Flight Following [if applicable]

Where a decision has been reached to establish a RFOC, the personnel listed above should be working within close proximity to the centre to provide immediate assistance if required.

Minimum Stand-up and Stand-by Personnel

For Multi-agency Level III IMT TFB Days - No Fire Activity

Forestry Tasmania, Parks and Wildlife Services and Tasmania Fire Service agree to the following arrangements on days of Total Fire Ban and/or, when determined through agency consultation, days of predicted Very High Fire Danger where a number of fires are burning within a region.



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Days of Total Fire Ban In each TFS region where a total fire ban has been declared an interagency Level 3 IMT is to be appointed to stand-up at the relevant TFS Regional Centre/s. As a minimum the IMT will consist of:

• Incident Controller, • Safety Advisor [strategic] • Operations Officer, • Comms Officer [FireComm] • Planning Officer,

o Admin Support / IRMS operator • Logistics Officer,

The three agencies will determine the need to place additional IMT personnel on “local agency call when needed arrangements” based on elevated forecast Fire Danger Ratings (FDR’s) and/or current levels of fire activity in each region. It is suggested that these additional personnel be available to attend the relevant TFS Regional Centre/s within 60 minutes of being contacted. Consideration should be given to the following roles:

• Public Information Officer • Administration support / IRMS x2 • Deputy IC • Logs Support x2 [catering / supply] • Planning Support

o Dedicated mapper o FBAn o resource unit leader

• Fire Investigator • Operations Command Structure

o DivComm o Sector Commanders o Staging Area Manager (SAM) o Plant Operations Manager (POM) o Air base manager [if applicable]



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Appendix 2 – Regional Fire Controller Checklist

Regional Fire Operations Centre

Fire Controller Checklist

Fire Controller: ...................................................................

Location: ...................................................................

For duration/shift:

Time: to

Date

S.1.3_StateandRegionalFireOperationsCentreArrangementsV4.0.docx Published March 2013 of 48

RFOC Personnel List

Position Name Work day commenced

RFOC Role commenced

RFOC Role completed

Signature


Incident Situation Officer

Administration Support- • IRMS • Logs/Resourcing • Regional/Corporate • Public Information

Public Information

Air Operations

Air Attack Supervisor

Tactical Operations

• Add Additional/Support Roles as required

Approved (RC/DRC)

Name Signature

Entered in IRMS

Name Signature

Date Time Date Time


Take Control Comments Time Completed

Region notified

FireComm; Media notified

Stakeholder notification:

Land Management partners

Partner Agencies

TasPol / SES / AT

etc.

EM Partners

Local Govt. Aurora / Transend Tasrail etc.

Other

Pager Message to Brigade Chiefs/Group Officers; “Regional Fire Operations Centre activated at ………… Centre as of ….Hrs. FireComm remains first contact for incidents”

Media release e-mailed to FireComm for Media distribution Incidents e-mail account RFOC partner agency e-mail account RFOC Emergency Management e-mail account Identify slashing programmed / hot works if weather conditions dictate. Specify: i.e. Private forests, Water Authority with areas of concern

Establish a control facility Delegation/person responsible

Time completed

Facility prepped BOM/FIRM/TFS websites active and monitored

All relevant computers activated

- delete unnecessary backload on email

RFOC File established for work period - Ensure RFOC IRMS entry at end of

work period

Resource Board/map checked and confirmed for accuracy

Mapping Tablets checked and powered up

RFOC operation commenced Aircraft Tasking


Air desk notified

Air Operations Plan established - To include Flight following protocols - Helipad secured

Establish and maintain a control structure Comments Time

Completed

RFOC and Regional staff briefed RFOC team meeting schedule established

RFOC Briefing Document completed and

distributed

Regional Communications Plan implemented

Personal logbooks distributed

Additional Tasks specific to FDI triggers - Refer RFOC Operating Guide

FDI 25-37 Delegation/person responsible

Time Completed

Aircraft availability confirmed via Air Desk

Air Attack Supervisor tasked

Air Base established

Heavy machinery location and availability checked - Initial process contact Forestry

Tasmania before proceeding to individual contractors

Hot Day Response protocols activated

Additional staff for standby identified for availability

EMGIS notified of RFOC activation -contact Aaron Cashion or refer on call list

Ph.6233 3667 mob. 0437 667 852

Significant fire activity/running incidents

Delegation/person responsible

Time Completed


RFOC resourced appropriately to workload / risk Consider Group Officer for resourcing

Resources / incidents prioritised

Strike Teams identified

Information Officers briefed - Alerts/warnings revisited every 30mins

RFOC Briefing Document to RC/DRC & SFOC on region commitments by 1000 hrs.

Situation Unit established

Total Fire Ban [L3 IMT Established]

Delegation/person responsible

Time Completed

RFOC resourced appropriately to workload / risk

Reporting lines established and communicated

Taspol MOU activated

Strike Teams identified

Pre-deployment of resources identified and implemented

EMGIS Unit established

FDI 38-74 TFB declared in one or more regions

Comment

State-wide coordination and reporting structure confirmed

TasPol Divisional Commanders notified

Relevant DOs to make contact with District support staff – Group Officers

Dept. of Education

Strike teams/ Task forces stood up

Strike teams/ Task forces pre-deployed

SFOC roles disseminated Liaisons Identified


- Identify location of pre-deployed teams

Additional staff for FCP deployment on standby

Add to Personnel list

FDI Greater than 74 Comments

Operational Priorities applied and communicated to relevant stakeholders & personnel

ST/TF /FCP staging in place

CFRs status


RFOC Handover or Shutdown Procedure Tasks Comments

RFOC Briefing document updated

RFOC personnel debriefed

RFOC Checklist/times completed

RFOC Files collated and finalised

TFS website checked for accuracy

Mapping completed and files sent to Incidents

Logbooks, mentoring documentation collated

Incoming FC briefed SFOC and FireComm

notified Media notified Performance

Appraisals completed RC/DRC briefed

Identifying staffing and resources for following day if applicable Briefing of staff to be completed.

Additional Notes ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

26

Appendix 3 – Role Descriptors State Level

State Fire Controller Role Description The State Fire Controller provides strategic direction and leadership

for the resolution of Tasmania Fire Service related emergencies (as outlined within the TEMP) across Tasmania.

Accountability The State Fire Controller holds accountability as detailed within the Fire Service Act 1979.

Responsibilities Specific responsibilities are: Provide strategic intent, direction and leadership for emergency

incident readiness and response; Provide high level support and direction to Regional Fire

Controllers and Incident Controllers; Ensure current and potential strategic risk/s are identified and

appropriate mitigation strategies have been implemented; Ensure that appropriate command, control and coordination

arrangements have been established relevant to the emergency risk/incident;

To “Stand Up” the SFOC and appoint appropriate staff; Ensure all levels are providing timely and relevant community

information to: - Tasmanian communities; - SEMAG; - SEMC; and, - Other stakeholders and EM partner agencies;

Ensure all levels are providing timely and relevant community information; issuing warnings, community liaison and media management;

To take in to consideration the early transition to recovery and initiate and/or implement when and where required;

Take strategic control of major emergency incidents within Tasmania;

Maintain a comprehensive log of all activities; and, Initiate and coordinate incident analysis and debriefings, at the

State level. Powers The State Fire Controller exercises powers and responsibilities under

the following legislation:

Fire Service Act 1979

Emergency Management Act 2006

Appointment The Chief Officer is the State Fire Controller.

The Chief Officer may delegate the role of State Fire Controller.

Notifications The Head of Agency will be notified of any delegation to the role of State Fire Controller.

Reporting Relationships

The State Fire Controller reports to the SEMC.

Teams and Committees

The State Fire Controller convenes and chairs all SFOC meetings and State level Regional meetings.

Deputy State Fire Controller Role Description The Deputy State Fire Controller provides support to the State Fire

Controller. In the absence of the State Fire Controller the Deputy will assume the function of State Fire Controller and/or undertake functional responsibilities as directed by the State Fire Controller.

Responsibilities Specific responsibilities are: Obtain a briefing from the State Fire Controller; Assume the role of State Fire Controller when required; Undertake functional roles as required and/or directed by the

State Fire Controller; Provide strategic support to the State Fire Controller; Provide high level support to Regional Fire Controllers and/or

Incident Controllers; Ensure Regional requests are processed and actioned; Provide support to the State Fire Operations Team; Facilitate the ongoing command, control and coordination

arrangements relevant to the emergency risk/incident; Ensure SEMAG and other EM partners continue to be

consulted and informed; Monitor the health, safety and welfare of personnel working

within the SFOC; Ensure safety systems, processes and procedures are being

adhered to; Provide advice to the State Fire Controller on the early

transition to recovery and assist in the initiation and/or implementation when and where required;

Maintain a comprehensive log of all activities; and, Participate in State level briefings.

Appointment The Deputy State Fire Controller is appointed by the State Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.

Notifications The Head of Agency will be notified of any delegation to the role of State Fire Controller.


The Deputy State Fire Controller reports to the State Fire Controller.


The Deputy State Fire Controller attends SEMAG meetings on behalf of the State Fire Controller and Land Management Agencies, as and when required. The Deputy Fire Controller forms part of the State Fire Operations Team.

State Fire Operations Centre Executive Officer

Role Description

The role of the Executive Officer is to support the State Controller and Deputy Controller(s) (when appointed) in providing strategic leadership for the resolution of emergencies and exercises of control during major emergencies.

Accountabilities The primary accountabilities of the Executive Officer include;

• Supporting the State Controller and Deputy Controller(s) (when appointed) to exercise state control of emergencies.

• Ensure the effective and coordinated operation of the State Fire Operations Centre (SFOC) to enable the State Controller to exercise strategic control.

• Exercise leadership and management of State Control administration, reporting and functional responsibilities to ensure outputs are effective, efficient and sustainable during emergencies.

Responsibilities Executive Officer responsibilities include:

• Facilitate the timely notification and action of issues for the attention of the State Controller and SFOC functional teams.

• Support the State Controller and Deputy Controller(s) in managing competing demands; and ensuring compliance with relevant emergency management legislation policies, procedures and arrangements.

• Facilitate the development and implementation of specific policy and procedures in response to developing emergency situations at the direction of the State Controller.

• Ensure decisions of the State Controller, Deputy Controller(s) are recorded and distributed.

• Ensure actions determined by the State Controller, Deputy Controller(s), and SFOC are documented, distributed and completed within specified timelines.

• Ensure executive meetings are timely, structured and have the appropriate level of administrative support.

• Ensure meeting records of SFOC, RFOC and IMTs or other parties accurately reflect the content, deliberations, decisions and actions, including the timely and appropriate dissemination of these records.

• Ensure the timely and appropriate preparation and authorisation of relevant Instruments of Appointment of Deputy Controller(s); including timely and effective distribution to relevant personnel.

• Monitor and maintain high level situational awareness of awareness of relevant information / incident management systems.

• Ensure appropriate handovers occur between Deputy Controllers and other primary stakeholders when appointed.

• Liaise, on behalf of the State Controller and/or Deputy Controller(s), with relevant stakeholder representatives.

• Manage and oversee SFOC Support functions.

• Any other duties required by the State Controller to support the effective operations and activities of the SFOC.

Skills & Attributes

Demonstrated understanding and knowledge of policies and procedures relating to the management of emergencies in Tasmania.

Knowledge of interstate, national and international emergency management arrangements.

Demonstrated understanding of the functions, operations, processes and procedures of the SFOC/RFOCs and IMTs.

Knowledge and understanding of the role and functions of Tasmania’s emergency management and response agencies.

An understanding of the operations of State and local government(s); and knowledge and awareness of Tasmania's emergency management arrangements.

High level briefing ability; together with high level skills and attributes for the provision of advice to aid the Executive decision making ability.

High level leadership and management experience appropriate to operation centres and team environments.

Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Understanding and awareness of information systems used to effectively manage emergencies, including the ability to effectively utilise these systems.

Key Relationships

Works closely with the State Controller, Deputy State Controller(s) and the State Control team.

Other Requirements

The Executive Officer is appointed by and reports to the State Controller.

The Executive Officer role shall only be performed by personnel maintaining a senior position with TFS.

The performance of the role may require working on weekends, public holidays and outside normal business hours.

The position is located in the SFOC or other sites (such as RFOC) as appropriate.

State Operations Commander Role Description The State Operations Commander provides strategic support to

the State Fire Controller in relation to Statewide operational response. The State Operations Commander will also maintain oversight of the State Planning Section within the State Fire Operations Centre.

Responsibilities Specific responsibilities are to: Obtain a briefing from the State Fire Controller; Maintain an overview of incidents being responded to, gaining

a State level view of impacts, resources, commitments and major issues;

Provide input into the State level strategic fire plan; Provide strategic Operations and Planning support to the State

Fire Controller; Review Incident objectives and strategies within Regional

IAP’s; Liaise with and provide support to Level III Operations and

Planning Officers as and when required; Ensure Community Protection Plans and/or Operational Plans

are being utilised; Liaise with Regional Fire Controllers and IMT’s to assess the

likelihood of critical infrastructure and/or community asset damage;

Consult with State Fire Control Team members, Regional Fire Controllers and IMT’s in relation to possible locations communities and/or tourists may gather;

Provide Operational briefings and support to State Fire Operations Team and stakeholders;

Provide ongoing progress reports to the State Fire Controller and State Fire Operations Team members;

Monitor the Statewide use of aircraft and machinery and its ongoing effectiveness;

Identify the potential for Rapid Impact Assessment; Participate in State level briefings; and, Maintain a comprehensive log of all activities.

Appointment The State Operations Commander is appointed by the State Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The State Operations Commander reports to the State Fire Controller.


The State Operations Commander manages the State level Operations and forms part of the State Fire Control Team, attending meetings as required.

State Intelligence Officer Role Description The State Intelligence Officer provides strategic support to the

State Operations Commander in relation to the collection and processing of resource and situation information. The State Operations Commander maintains oversight of the State Intelligence Section within the State Fire Operations Centre.

Responsibilities Specific responsibilities are to: Obtain a briefing from the State Operations Commander; Liaise with Regions and IMT’s to ensure information flow is

maintained; Liaise with other EM agencies and stakeholders; Provide support and advice to IMT Planning sections; Provide single point of contact for the State coordination of

weather services and liaison with BoM; Assist with the production of State level fire behavior analysis

and prediction maps; Collect, analyse and summaries information from regions and

IMT’s, relevant to the State perspective; Ensure all maps and visual displays are kept up-to-date and

bring to the attention of the State Operations Commander any significant event or unusual occurrence;

Monitor the status of incidents and request the assistance of technical specialists as required;

Monitor possible issues that could affect the safety or welfare of State Fire Operations Team members and/or incident personnel;

Participate in State level briefings; and, Maintain a comprehensive log of all activities.

Appointment The State Intelligence Officer is appointed by the State Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The State Intelligence Officer reports to the State Operations Commander.


The State Intelligence Officer attends State Fire Operations Team meetings.

State Air Operations Officer Role Description The State Air Operations Officer provides strategic support to the

State Fire Controller in relation to the development of a State air operations plan and maintains an overview of State level air operations.

Responsibilities Specific responsibilities are to: Advise the State Fire Controller on aircraft prioritisation to

incidents Obtain a briefing from the State Fire Controller; Liaise with Regions and IMT’s in relation to air operations and

personnel resource requirements; Maintain the State Airdesk; Maintain an up-to-date current status on all contracted aircraft,

including National Aerial Firefighting Centre contracts and those on the Call When Needed Register;

Establish procedures for tracking statewide aircraft movements;

Determine the need for and assess requests for additional resources;

Ensure Regions and IMT’s are complying with the declaration of restricted air space requirements;

Ensure the appropriate aviation Authorities have been consulted on current aircraft response activities and any external air traffic issues;

Establish procedures for the emergency re-allocation of aircraft;

Arrange air investigation teams as required; Ensure flight returns and appropriate documentation is

completed and monitored by TFS finance; Provide aircraft advice and support to Regions and IMT’s; Monitor possible issues that could affect the safety or welfare

of State Fire Operations Team members and/or incident personnel;


Appointment The State Air Operations Officer is appointed by the State Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The State Air Operations Officer reports to the State Fire Controller.


The State Air Operations Officer attends State Fire Operations Team meetings.

State Public Information Officer Role Description The State Public Information Officer provides community warning,

media liaison, and community liaison roles to the State Fire Controller, State Fire Operations Centre (SFOC) and supports Regional Fire Operations Centres (RFOCs).

Responsibilities Specific responsibilities are to:

Obtain a briefing from the State Fire Controller;

Obtain information on the current and projected incident situations from the RFOC and/or IMT Public Information; and, Planning/Intelligence Sections and other external sources;

Media Liaison

o Coordination of state wide media needs;

o Provide strategic media support to the State Fire Controller

o Liaison with news media and manage state wide media liaison issues;

o Provide media liaison functions at a local incident level in the absence of regional public information section;

Provision of Community Warnings

o Coordination of state wide warnings;

o Provide warnings and information to threatened communities, other stakeholders and the general public in the absence of a regional public information section;

Provision of Community Liaison

o Consultation and liaison with affect communities in the absence of a regional public information section;

Ensure SEMAG and other EM partners continue to be informed through the State Fire Controller;

Identify and disseminate, where required, Community Protection Plans;

Participate in State level briefings; and,

Maintain a comprehensive log of all activities.

Appointment The State Public Information Officer is appointed by the State Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The State Public Information Officer will report to the State Fire Controller.


The State Public Information Officer attends State Fire Operations Team meetings.

State G.I.S Officer Role Description The State GIS Officer produces and maintains State level general

information maps for the State Fire Control Team and support agencies.


Obtain a briefing from the State Operations Commander;

Ensure the relevant computers and printers are functioning;

Liaise with Regions and IMT’s in relation to GIS support requirements;

Maintain up-to-date maps of statewide incidents, electronically and hard copy;

Determine the need for and assess requests for additional resources;

Ensure access to relevant maps and spatial datasets including access to the BoM weather information;

Provide support to the State Intelligence Officer and/or FBAn’s;

Upload fire boundaries to TFS Online;

Ensure maps include relevant information including; Community Fire Refuges (CFR), pre-planned Nearby Safer Places (NSP), road closures, critical infrastructure, community assets and possible areas that local communities and/or tourists may gather;



Appointment The State GIS Officer is appointed by the State Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The State GIS Officer reports to the State Intelligence Officer.


The State GIS Officer attends State Fire Operations Team meetings.

State Safety Advisor Role Description The State Safety Advisor provides strategic safety support and

advice to the State Fire Controller.

Responsibilities Specific responsibilities are to: Obtain a briefing from the State Fire Controller; Monitor the safety and welfare of State Fire Control Team

members and maintain a strategic safety overview of Statewide incidents;

Ensure SFOC, RFOC/s and IMT/s maintain a risk and near miss reporting and mitigation process;

Review the safety component of RFOC/s and IMT/s Incident Action Plan;

Ensure safe systems of work are being initiated for all incidents;


Appointment The State Safety Advisor is appointed by the State Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The State Safety Advisor reports directly to the State Fire Controller.


The State Safety Advisor attends State Fire Operations Team meetings and coordinates Statewide meetings with Regional and/or Level III Safety Advisors, when required.

State Resource Officer Role Description The State Resource Officer provides strategic advice to the State

Fire Controller on Statewide resource deployment and resourcing in general.


Obtain a briefing from the State Fire Controller; Establish effective communication networks with RFOC’s and

IMT’s; Continue to liaise with RFOC’s and/or IMT’s on longer term

resource planning; Establish and maintain a Resource Management System for

the tracking of resources; Identify longer term SFOC resourcing requirements; Provide advice and/or assistance with changeover and/or

demobilization plans; Liaise with Regional Chief/s on intra-state requirements; Liaise with inter-state counterparts on inter-state and/or

international deployments; Participate in State level briefings; and, Maintain a comprehensive log of all activities.

Appointment The State Resourcing Officer is appointed by the State Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The State Resourcing Officer reports directly to the State Operations Commander.


The State Resourcing Officer attends State Fire Operations Team meetings.

State Emergency Alert Officer Role Description The State EA Officer provides strategic advice to the State Fire

Controller on Statewide Emergency Alert requirements.


Obtain a briefing from the State Public Information Officer;

Provide EA access to all emergency organisations as per the Emergency Alert Protocol 2009;

Establish systems and processes with the SFOC, RFOC’s and/or IMT’s to ensure EA is issued in a timely manner;

Monitor incidents to determine the possible need for a Standard Emergency Warning Signal;

Provide advice and/or assistance to Regional Fire Controllers and/or IMT’s on EA requirements;

Seek the approval of the State Fire Controller on the issuance of State level EA;

Identify alternative EA dissemination methods;



Appointment The State EA Officer is appointed by the State Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The State EA Officer reports directly to the State Public Information Officer.


The State EA Officer attends Public Information Section and State Fire Operations Team meetings.

State FBAN Officer Role Description The State FBAn Officer provides strategic advice to the State Fire

Controller on bushfire predictions and Likely Impact Zones.


Obtain a briefing from the State Operations Commander;

Ensure strategic bushfire prediction modeling is undertaken for fires at the State level;

Provide advice and/or support to Regional Fire Controllers and/or IMT’s on fire prediction requirements;

Ensure fire predictions are validated and communicated to stakeholders and EM partners;

Identify the most appropriate prediction tool/s based on the type/s of vegetation – Phoenix and /or Prometheus;

Liaise with the State GIS Officer to ensure maps are updated and contain relevant information.



Appointment The State FBAn Officer is appointed by the State Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The State FBAn Officer reports directly to the State Intelligence Officer.


The State FBAn Officer attends Planning and State Fire Operations Team meetings.

Multi-Agency Coordinating Group (MAC) Role Description The Multi-Agency Coordinating Group (MAC) brings together the

three fire agencies, TFS, FT and PWS, provides strategic advice to the State Fire Controller and assists in coordination of response for Level III bushfires across multiple tenures and agencies.

Responsibilities Specific responsibilities are to: Obtain a briefing from the State Fire Controller; Represent their agency at the MAC and the State Fire

Management Team, including representing the policies, concerns and priorities of their agency;

Assist with the facilitation and coordination of inter-agency responses;

Recommend to the Chief Officer, through the State Fire Controller if delegated, the appointment of a suitably experienced Incident Controller and appropriately resourced Incident Management Teams to manage Level III incidents or fires that have the real potential to impact on lives, critical infrastructure and/or properties within the community;

Monitor the statewide fire situation and liaise with local districts and regions about fires with the potential to escalate to Level III status and make recommendations to the State Fire Controller that support the appropriate management of those fires;

Advise the State Fire Controller, or if delegated to do this by the State Fire Controller, task and/or appointed Incident Management Teams, ensuring that the Incident Controller has a clear understanding of agency policies, intentions and constraints to be considered when determining incident objectives;

Establish critical resource use priorities between various bushfires and allocate critical resources, or if a State Fire Controller has been appointed by the Chief Officer, advise the State Fire Controller on resource use priorities and allocation;

For the FT and PWS representatives on the MAC, provide briefings and updates on bushfires on State Forest and reserved land and the level of resource commitment.

Appointment The agencies will appoint a representative and deputies to the Multi-Agency Coordinating (MAC) Group.


The MAC reports directly to the State Fire Controller.


The MAC is part of the State Fire Operations Team and attends their meetings.

Appendix 4 – Role Descriptors at Regional Level


Role Description The Regional Fire Controller provides strategic direction and leadership for the Regional Fire Operations Centre and provides co-ordination and support to incidents within the Region. The Regional Fire Controller holds accountability as detailed within the Fire Service Act 1979.

Responsibilities Specific responsibilities are: Manages RFOC staff Prioritisation of Incidents Monitors and adjusts regional operational procedures Conduit for regional resource requests and external

regional requirements via SFOC Deploys personnel and contract aircraft as requested Implements precautionary strategies including pre-

deployment of resources relevant to risk Collates Sitreps from IMTs (IC ) within region to brief SFOC

as required on critical issues Prepares and provides regular regional briefings to

Regional Chief or State Operations (SFOC) Liaises with other agencies

Appointment The Regional Chief is the Regional Fire Controller. The Regional Chief may delegate the role of Regional Fire

Controller. Reporting Relationships

The Regional Fire Controller reports directly to the State Fire Controller


The Regional Fire Controller convenes and chairs all RFOC meetings, attends Regional Emergency Management Meetings and SFOC Briefings.

Incident Situation Officer Role Description The Regional Intelligence Officer provides strategic support to the

Regional Fire Controller in relation to the collection and processing of resource and situation information. The Regional Fire Controller maintains oversight of the Regional Intelligence Section within the Regional Fire Operations Centre.

Responsibilities Monitors local conditions/BOM Monitors Resource Tracking within region and Strike Team

deployments Develops RFOC briefing document with Admin support Provides predictive forecasts and options analysis for

developing incidents Develops strategies in collaboration with RFC Assists PIO in determining community warnings Provides input to briefing documents Manages aircraft usage/tasking in conjunction with Air

Operations

Appointment The Regional Intelligence Officer is appointed by the Regional Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The Regional Intelligence Officer reports directly to the Regional Fire Controller


The Regional Intelligence Officer attends Regional Fire Operations Team meetings.

Public Information Role Description The Regional Public Information provides community warning,

media liaison, and community liaison roles to the Regional Fire Controller, Regional Fire Operations Centre (RFOC) and supports Level 3 Incident Management Teams.

Responsibilities Disseminates information on approval of RFC Monitors website Updates website as required Collates and coordinates community advice/warnings as

required Manages Media

Appointment The Regional Public Information Officer is appointed by the Regional Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The Regional Public Information reports directly to the Regional Fire Controller


The Regional Public Information attends Regional Fire Operations Team meetings.

Regional Air Operations Role Description The Regional Air Operations Officer provides strategic support to

the Regional Fire Controller in relation to the development of a Regional air operations plan and maintains an overview of Regional level air operations.

Responsibilities Disseminates information on approval of RFC Monitors website Updates website as required Collates and coordinates community advice/warnings as

required Manages Media

Appointment The Regional Air Operations is appointed by the Regional Fire Controller, in accordance with agency procedures.


The Regional Air Operations reports directly to the Regional Fire Controller


The Regional Air Operations attends Regional Fire Operations Team meetings.

Admin Support Role Description

Responsibilities Resource Requests Resource Tracking IRMS Documentation and filing

o T Card management Machinery locations Strike Team/Taskforce support

Appointment Admin Support is appointed by the Regional Team Leader.


Admin Support reports directly to the Regional Fire Controller


The Admin Support attends Regional Fire Operations Team meetings.

Appendix 5 – RFOC Daily Planning Schedule

Appendix 6 – RFOC Agenda

Appendix 7 – SFOC Daily Planning Schedule

Appendix 8 – SFOC Agenda

Appendix 9 – SFOC Operations Team Organisational Chart

state and regional fire operations centres … it will be necessary to increase the level/s of...

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