The Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) established the role after a review of emergency arrangements on the Burrup Peninsula found changes were needed.
Emergency Services Minister Michelle Roberts said the new position was the first of several recommendations to be implemented resulting from the Burrup Peninsula Emergency Services Review Steering Committee Report.
“As one of Western Australia’s most dynamic and economically robust industrial regions, it is important that the Burrup has in place reliable, high level emergency arrangements,” Roberts said.
“The appointment of John Newman as FESA Fire Services Manager Burrup is in line with the Government's commitment to further improving emergency services management in this remote but rapidly developing part of the State.”
Newman has an extensive knowledge of local fire and emergency services, together with a proven track record in senior management, according to Roberts.
The recent Burrup review conducted by FESA found that the levels of resourcing in the area were appropriate to the hazards. Newman’s task will be to work with companies and state agencies to find the best way coordinate those resources to maximise their effectiveness in responding to emergencies, including natural disasters and other threats.
The Minister added that a further recommendation, stemming from the report, was well under way.
“An implementation plan is currently being developed to ensure a structured approach to emergency service delivery co-ordination, while at the same time providing relevant advice and expertise to stakeholders,” Roberts said.
The WA Government has also committed $183 million to construct common use infrastructure on the Burrup Peninsula to help attract major value-adding projects to Western Australia.
