Scott Ryan (Victoria, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

The Tasmanian government is best placed to investigate the management response and on-ground work necessary following the fires. The Tasmanian Premier has already announced that the Tasmania Fire Service has initiated an independent inquiry conducted by the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council. The coalition applauds the tireless work of nearly 7,000 personnel and up to 40 aircraft and pilots involved in firefighting efforts. We also commend the efforts of Emergency Management Australia for their responsiveness on behalf of the Commonwealth. The coalition wholeheartedly supports the priority effort to protect lives and property in Tasmania and notes that Tasmania continues to identify areas of high ecological value and cultural significance for protection. The Australian government is also providing $14.8 million annually to increase national aerial firefighting capability.

Question agreed to.