Wingecarribee Shire Council is inviting Shire residents to take part in an online survey about Council's response to the 2019/20 Black summer bushfires.
The survey is one of the key components of an independent review Council's Interim Administrator Viv May has requested be undertaken in response to the disaster.
"I've previously stated that I would be seeking a 'warts and all' report into Council's immediate response to the bushfires and ongoing recovery actions," Mr May said.
"This survey will help capture the impressions of residents, business owners and other persons impacted by the bushfires and provide a clearer picture of Council's actions both during the disaster and in the immediate months thereafter."
The independent bushfire review is being undertaken by Mr Dave Owens from Risk-e Business Consultants.
Mr Owens is a former Deputy Commissioner of the NSW Police Force with 30 years of service. He has also been a State and Regional Recovery Coordinator and has extensive knowledge into the establishment and running of Recovery Committees and funding applications. Mr Owens was involved in the NSW Government's Independent Bushfire Inquiry which resulted in 76 recommendations.
Mr May reiterated that the report would focus on Council's response to the bushfires only.
"The purpose of this review is to ensure that should the Shire ever be faced by a similar threat we will be best prepared to respond and meet the needs of our community."
The independent review will focus on Council's immediate response to the bushfire emergency including support for impacted residents. Council's short-term recovery response, establishment of recovery committees, long-term recovery plans, applications for State and Federal funding and effectiveness of the Mayoral Relief Fund will also be examined.
As part of the review, community events will also be held to provide residents with an opportunity to share their experiences directly with Mr Owens. Event details will be confirmed shortly.
