Australia's tsunami response arrangements are in accordance with the AUSASSIST Plan (Commonwealth Government Overseas Response Plan).

AUSASSIST Plan is the Commonwealth Government's plan for the provision of emergency assistance, using Commonwealth Government physical and technical resources, following a disaster/emergency in another country. Where the Commonwealth does not have the capacity within its own resources, it may task State/Territory agencies and private sector organisations. The plan is managed by Emergency Management Australia (EMA) on behalf of the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID).

In leading and coordinating the Australian response the Commonwealth Government is consulting with the governments of the countries affected and the international community.

Over the coming weeks and months the Commonwealth Government will advise the State and Territories of any specific assistance to be applied towards the Australian response effort. The Premier has asked that all agencies are prepared to respond to any requests by the Commonwealth.

At this stage the States and Territories have been advised that any requests for assistance will be made by the EMA. New South Wales, through the State Emergency Management Committee, supported by the Counter Terrorism and Disaster Recovery Unit of Premier's Department will respond to any requests and inform the agencies concerned.

I have been asked by the Premier to seek the assistance of Chief Executives in reviewing the available resources and expertise available within each agency to determine the level of capability available. Of particular interest is expertise located in the region, where staff have experience in the region or in addressing regional needs generally.

A report on experience or expertise available within your agency should be submitted to Premier's Department by 18 January 2005. Reports may be emailed to Premier's Department at [email protected]

It is important to emphasise that the Australian response will be led by the Commonwealth Government and EMA will request any specific requirements/capabilities. Under the approved arrangements these requests would normally be shared across the Australian jurisdictions.

Alex Smith
A/Director General