NSW counter terrorism information goes on-line
Release date: 11 November 2007
11:45
The NSW Government is launching a communications strategy to keep the community informed about what they can do to prepare and protect themselves and their family should a terrorist attack occur, Premier Morris Iemma said.
Mr Iemma today joined Police Minister David Campbell and Commissioner Andrew Scipione to launch NSW and Australia's first on-line site for counter terrorism information - secureNSW.
"NSW has detailed and well practised plans in place to manage a terrorism incident in this State, should the worst happen," Mr Iemma said.
"Our police and emergency services are among the best resourced and equipped in the world, in the case of a terrorist attack at home.
"But all the preparation means little unless the community has access to the information and know what they should do to protect their families.
"This is a new tool in our effort to help the people of NSW to be prepared."
This website provides NSW families with information on:
- Measures they can take to prepare and protect themselves in an emergency;
- Contact details of numbers to call and when to use them; and
- Information on key community programs which aim to increase understanding of counter terrorism and related issues.
"secureNSW is a unique initiative and is the first site of its type in Australia. The United States Department of Homeland Security and the UK Home Office operate similar sites."
Minister Campbell said the Iemma Government was also providing businesses with assistance to help secure places of mass gathering and to protect critical infrastructure.
"We're making sure every member of the public has access to the same resources so everyone can be as prepared as possible," Mr Campbell said.
"Our police, fire services, health, road and transport agencies are supported by significant powers through legislation and more than $330 million of additional resources and training.
"We've worked to learn the lessons of the attacks on the United States, Bali, Madrid and London to ensure NSW has the best possible plans, resources and emergency responders.
"secureNSW is the latest tool to make sure families in NSW are prepared for the worst should it happen."
Commissioner Scipione said NSW Police had developed a range of innovative approaches to countering terrorism, and secureNSW gave police an additional avenue to communicate information before, during and after an incident.
"As the largest law enforcement organisation in Australia, the NSW Police Force has a significant and integral role in national counter terrorism planning," Mr Scipione said.
"The secureNSW website, will help increase understanding of counter terrorism arrangements in this State, and build business and community resilience.
"It is vital that we effectively share information about counter terrorism, and that we work together against this threat.
"This website is a one-stop shop for counter terrorism information in New South Wales and meets our ongoing commitment to promote public understanding of counter terrorism arrangements.
"Ultimately, secureNSW will inform, advise and educate the public on counter terrorism related information, initiatives and arrangements."
www.secure.nsw.gov.au
News Release
Premier of New South Wales Australia