By weeklytimesnow.com.au

VICTORIA’S fire chief has been appointed the state’s first emergency management commissioner.

Fire services commissioner Craig Lapsley, who has served in the role since 2010, will take on the position from July 1.

Victorian Emergency Services Minister Kim Wells said Mr Lapsley has seen the state through various emergencies, including the recent Latrobe Valley mine fire.

“I expect he will bring the same drive and commitment to his new role as emergency management commissioner where he will be responsible for further improving the way we manage emergencies,” Mr Wells said.

Mr Wells said Victoria’s emergency services would no longer be placed in silos and the management position would ensure no overlap in roles.

Mr Lapsley said the new position is a clear logical step.
“Like the minister said, there is a duplication. There’s no space for duplication,” he said.

“If we only deal with fire alone we aren’t doing what we should be doing with the other potential hazards.”

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