Public submissions on a range of issues related to the October 2022 floods are being called for as part of a Victorian parliamentary inquiry.
The Legislative Council Environment and Planning Committee will investigate the state’s preparedness for and response to the disaster.
The motion calling for the inquiry was put by the Coalition and supported by the crossbench, including the Greens last month. The Labor Government did not oppose it.
“This inquiry will look into the flood event as a whole and the areas affected,” committee chair Sonja Terpstra said.
“It will consider what caused or contributed to the flooding and the adequacy and effectiveness of early warning systems.”
Emergency services, government policy, flood mitigation strategies, the Flemington Racecourse flood wall and the Victorian Planning Framework will also be key to the inquiry.
The committee is accepting written submissions until May 8 and intends to hold public hearings in flood-affected regions.
The Nationals Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland said that the enquiry was a chance for regional people to have their voices heard.
“This inquiry has the ability to make crucial recommendations and ensure our region is better prepared and protected against flood events,” Ms Cleeland said.
The committee has indicated a willingness to hold public hearings in flood impacted communities, Ms Cleeland said.
“While the impacts of the floods will continue to be felt for a long time, we need to start having discussions about how to mitigate risks into the future,” she said.
The report by the committee, which includes two northern Victoria upper house members, Wendy Lovell and Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell, is due by June 30, 2024.
For the full terms of reference and other information, visit https://new.parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/inquiries/floodinquiry/submissions