Parliament’s normal schedule will be suspended to allow all members an opportunity to express condolences on behalf of their communities to the loved ones of those who died in this season’s wildfires. Twenty five people have died in New South Wales alone and around 2,400 homes have been destroyed. The loss is unfathomable but we have also seen heartening solidarity and generosity among people of all walks of life, with massive donations and offers of assistance. I will pay tribute to those efforts to help including from inner city communities.

The Premier has announced a six month inquiry into the causes, preparation and response to the 2019-20 bushfires to be carried out by former NSW Deputy Police Commissioner Dave Owens and Independent Planning Commission Chair and former NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer Professor Mary O’Kane.

The inquiry must consider the impact of changing climate on these

unprecedented fires, and the report must be made public. Details are not yet available, but there will be public submissions and a report to the Premier.  Information: HERE