The state government in Victoria, Australia, is to establish a single emergency management body to oversee all agencies during major floods, fires and other emergencies.
AAP reports Emergency Management Victoria will be created to be responsible for major disasters before, during and after they occur in a bid to minimise confusion.
Emergency Services Minister Peter Ryan said it is the most significant reform of Victoria's emergency management arrangements since an overhaul in 1986 in response to the 1983 Ash Wednesday blaze.
AAP reports an official announcement was expected to be made on Monday afternoon.
The new organisation will be headed by a commissioner who will oversee several agencies including the Country Fire Authority, the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, Ambulance Victoria, the State Emergency Services and Victoria Police. It will also manage outbreaks of disease.
AAP reports the state government on Monday will also issue a white paper on disaster management, which is part of its response to the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission and a review of the 2010-2011 floods.
