Response
It is important to remember that the first few hours of any terrorist incident – no matter what its cause – will be chaotic. It is also important to remember that response arrangements will be impacted by the type and location of a terrorist incident - particularly if essential services have been targeted.
New South Wales (NSW) will determine its response to a terrorist attack based on an assessment of risk. Incidents involving terrorism will be managed using the NSW Integrated Command & Control Model (ICCM). This model provides the management framework for a multi-agency response and coordination of an incident or emergency.
In the event of a terrorist attack that requires the involvement of several government agencies, the State Emergency Operations Controller (SEOCON) will take control and coordinate the deployment of resources. The SEOCON role is held by the Deputy Commissioner, Field Operations, NSW Police Force.
The State Operations Centre (SOC) will be activated immediately to coordinate the emergency management response. The SOC combines the Police Operations Centre (POC) and the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC).
The SEOC includes a wide range of agencies such as transport, health, welfare and volunteer organisations. The POC supports the Police Forward Commander who will be in charge of the operation. Reception Points may be established to enable Police to capture information, data and evidence from victims and witnesses at the incident site.
The State Coordination Centre will also become active – providing centralised policy advice, information and support. It also provides a strategic liaison point between the State and Commonwealth governments.
Parallel to these arrangements all emergency services will activate their own emergency operations centres to coordinate their resources and activities.