Shaping an integrated multi-agency approach to EM

ResilientCo recently wrapped up a successful project with the City of Port Phillip helping to shape a more integrated, multi-agency approach to emergency management planning.

We worked closely with the Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee (MEMPC), facilitating workshops that strengthened leadership, governance, and partnerships across the board — all in line with the updated EMLA Act 2018 which champions a shared responsibility model between Council and agencies in emergency management planning.

Through hands-on activities like our “Rewrite Workshop,” we explored Port Phillip’s key risks and community vulnerabilities — from coastal flooding and public health challenges to social cohesion and housing pressures.

Together, we mapped strengths and weaknesses faced by residents of City of Port Phillip, using the resilience wheel to guide discussions. The cultural diversity of the community and the vibrant social landscape stood out as major assets, while ongoing environmental and climate related impacts, as well as lack of affordable housing were flagged as vulnerabilities.

One of the most engaging sessions was our "Working Together During Disaster" activity, where participants from Council and agencies assessed the systems, processes and procedures that are in place for mitigation, preparedness, response, relief and recovery at the local level and co-designed actions to stop, strengthen, keep, and innovate.

The MEMPC were keen to see improved collaboration and communication between Council, agencies, and other regional partnerships, as well as greater engagement with diverse community groups including the youth, culturally and linguistically diverse, and LGBTQIAB+.

City of Port Phillip demonstrated its commitment to building a more resilient, inclusive approach to emergency management.

We're grateful to have contributed to this important work, paving the way for other local governments in Victoria to adopt a more collaborative, community-centered model that brings together councils, agencies, and residents in every phase of emergency planning and response!

Want to know more? Drop a line to the team hello@resilientco.au