15 May 2011

Better training for natural disasters recommended

8:30 am on 15 May 2011

Queensland's deputy police commissioner has told the flood inquiry that a college for natural disasters should be established to better prepare officials to handle emergencies.

Ian Stewart, who was state disaster coordinator during the Queensland floods earlier this year, told the hearing that council, district and state officials who manage disasters should have to have certain qualifications.

He said he understands there would be a cost involved in training them, but the recovery cost to Queensland would be reduced because people would be better prepared.