Disaster and Emergency Management Reforms
Proclamation update | 14 June 2024
RIT Update
We have a lot to celebrate this month!
From 3 June 2024, Queensland saw a pivotal moment in our emergency preparedness as the state's most significant disaster and emergency management reforms occur. With the Emergency Services Reform Amendment Act 2024 proclamation, Queensland is fortified to tackle fires, disasters, and emergencies with increased resilience and capability.
So, what does "proclamation" mean? When a bill is proclaimed, it advances from being proposed legislation to becoming an Act of Parliament. After the bill has gone through all three reading stages in Parliament and has received Royal Assent from the Governor, it becomes an Act. The assent is announced by proclamation in the Government Gazette, specifying the date the Act will take effect.
Under the Emergency Services Reform Amendment Act 2024, both Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) and State Emergency Service (SES) have now been integrated into the Queensland Police Service (QPS). This strategic move streamlines coordination and resource allocation, ensuring a more efficient and effective emergency response system.
Click here for more information about how laws are made in Queensland.
Commissioner Gollschewski's welcome message
Commissioner Steve Gollschewski's welcome message for SES and MRQ.
As the former Special Coordinator of Reforms, Commissioner Gollschewski has been involved in the transition of SES and the establishment of MRQ from the outset.
Now, as the Commissioner of the QPS, he is excited to see the integration of these services into the QPS, and how this move will enhance the QPS's organisational capability.
SES and MRQ have now been integrated into the QPS
MRQ has been established a state-wide marine rescue service and transitioning the SES into the QPS, we are laying the foundation for a more responsive and efficient emergency apparatus.
SES is now operating with its own legislation, the State Emergency Service Act 2024, its own budget, staff and volunteers, along with its first Chief Officer, Mark Armstrong.
MRQ has been established as the state's first integrated marine rescue service, with Tony Wulff as Chief Officer, under new legislation, Marine Rescue Queensland Act 2024. The transition of inviting volunteer marine rescue units from Australian Volunteer Coast Guard and Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland to join MRQ will now begin in a phased approach from July and continue onboarding units for the next 12 to 18 months.
The services will be hosted within the Queensland Police Service.
These changes strengthen existing relationships across the services, enhancing the state’s coordinated response during natural disasters and emergencies. These reforms ensure Queenslanders continue to receive world class emergency and disaster management response.
A word from SES Chief Officer, Mark Armstrong
"SES has a long and proud history of commitment and service to community safety, especially during times of disasters.
We will continue building a service that empowers volunteers to drive real change and look forward to a bright future under the guidance of QPS".
A word from MRQ Chief Officer, Tony Wulff
"Marine Rescue Queensland is built on the strong legacy of VMRQ and the AVCGA and I am honoured to be MRQ's first Chief Officer.
I am committed to working with all marine rescue volunteers to build a service which supports, celebrates and champions the lifesaving work they do everyday".
Celebrating SES and MRQ
Queensland witnessed a historic moment as the State Emergency Service (SES) and Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) were formally integrated into the Queensland Police Service (QPS). This significant event marks a new chapter in disaster and emergency management for the state.
The official flag exchange between Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Steve Smith and SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong symbolises the seamless transition. As these services merge, Queensland strengthens its ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies.
During the ceremony, The Honourable Mark Ryan MP, Minister for Police and Community Safety, presented a framed citation to SES volunteer Tony Daniel on behalf of all SES volunteers and staff. Their dedication and service were acknowledged and celebrated.
MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff unveiled the new MRQ brand and emblem, prominently displayed on the fresh blue and yellow MRQ uniforms.
Keep an eye out for these uniforms as MRQ personnel hit the waterways in the coming months.
Queensland now stands united, ready to face any challenge that comes its way.
QFES Commissioner Steve Smith officially handing over the SES flag to SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong.
The Honourable Nikki Boyd MP, Chief Officer Mark Armstrong, Acting Assistant Commissioner Brian Cox, Paddy the Platypus, SES crews in front of one of the new MRQ vessels.
Also featuring Macca, the SES Support Dog a.k.a. the star of the show - lying down on the job. Its a "ruff" job being so cute all the time!
MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff announcing the new MRQ branding with MRQ members.
Paddy the Platypus watching over the cutting of the cake by QFD Commissioner Steve Smith and QPS Acting Deputy Commissioner Chris Stream.
Watch the official livestream of SES transition to QPS and MRQ showcasing new branding!
SES transition to QPS from Queensland Police Service on Vimeo.
Exciting new websites now live!
Marine Rescue Queensland has launched it's own website.
More information will be added in the coming months, so to keep up to date and information please click or here for further information.
We're also excited to launch State Emergency Service's new website!
To keep up to date with the SES and our volunteers, please click here for further information.
Contact us
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- Last updated:
- 17 June 2024