Mathias Cormann (WA, Liberal Party, Vice-President of the Executive Council) Share this | Hansard source

Obviously we've made significant efforts to boost our capability to respond to national emergencies. Indeed, we have a dedicated minister with dedicated portfolio responsibility for this at cabinet level. Aerial firefighting does play an important role in protecting communities and essential infrastructure and providing vital support to firefighters on the ground. Whilst aerial firefighting is one method of fire suppression, fire and land management agencies across the jurisdictions use a combination of firefighting tactics prior to and during operations. These include but are not limited to: hazard reduction activities in preparation for the bushfire season; the establishment of a network of strategic fire trails to improve access; a mix of career retained and volunteer personnel; a range of specialist firefighting personnel, including remote aerial firefighters and specialist strike teams; a range of assets, including tankers, bulk water carriers, marine craft, vehicles fitted with compressed air foam systems et cetera. (Time expired)