The hope for a more resilient floods scenario is behind Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin’s call for community members impacted by the floods, to make sure their experiences are included in the 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry.
The NSW Government has set up an inquiry to review the preparation for, the causes of, the response to, and the recovery from the catastrophic flood event across NSW.
On Monday Premier Dominic Perrottet announced that submissions are now open when visiting Lismore with Professor Mary O’Kane and Michael Fuller who are leading the six-month investigation.
Ms Saffin said it was important that the inquiry wasn’t just the same old same old. ‘We’ve had inquiries after past floods and bushfires, but I don’t see evidence of lessons learned, going by the preparation and response to this disaster.
‘I spoke with Professor O’Kane and Mr Fuller on their visit to Lismore and have faith in their abilities to conduct this inquiry.
‘The Government must commit to taking the necessary actions and funding the recommendations that come out of it.
Ms Saffin said this was not the usual type of flood, this was a catastrophic event and things must be done differently. ‘I urge local people to make a submission, whether it be one page or one paragraph. We need every aspect of this disaster included.
‘I will also be making a submission and including stories and evidence given to me by community members.’
Submissions can be made by email: [email protected]; by post: NSW Independent Flood Inquiry, GPO Box 5341, Sydney NSW 2001, or in-person: at Service NSW Service Centre (Lismore Centre currently located at Southern Cross University Block V)
Or at public consultation sessions which will be advertised in advance.
