The Purpose of the Royal Comission - Terms of Reference

6 February, 2009

1. The causes and circumstances of the bushfires which burned in various parts of Victoria in late January and in February 2009 ("2009 Bushfires").
2. The preparation and planning by governments, emergency services, other entities, the community and households for bushfires in Victoria, including current laws, policies, practices, resources and strategies for the prevention, identification, evaluation, management and communication of bushfire threats and risks.

3. All aspects of the response to the 2009 Bushfires, particularly measures taken to control the spread of the fires and measures taken to protect life and private and public property, including but not limited to:

4. The measures taken to prevent or minimise disruption to the supply of essential services such as power and water during the 2009 Bushfires.

5. Any other matters that you deem appropriate in relation to the 2009 Bushfires.

   AND WE direct you to make such recommendations arising out of your inquiry as you consider appropriate, including recommendations for governments, emergency services, other entities and the community on:

6. The preparation and planning for future bushfire threats and risks, particularly the prevention of loss of life.
7. Land use planning and management, including urban and regional planning.
8. The fireproofing of housing and other buildings, including the materials used in construction.
9. The emergency response to bushfires.
10. Public communication and community advice systems and strategies.
11. Training, infrastructure, and overall resourcing needs.