Linda Reynolds (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

The Australian government has acted swiftly in support of the Western Australian government's response. The Australian Government Disaster Response Plan has been activated by Minister Littleproud. He's also activating Australian government disaster payments for those most affected in the Mundaring and Swan local government areas. Today, defence is supporting water-bombing operations from RAAF Base Pearce, which yesterday was in extreme danger, and they're assisting firefighters to move to the fire front. Defence will also fly additional fire retardant from RAAF Base Richmond to Western Australia.

Last year, defence completed a strategic review of Operation Bushfire Assist to ensure that our support to natural disaster was optimised. Consequential changes are now making it easier for defence to assist states and territories. I thank all senators who supported that—