Declaring a State of Local Emergency

This factsheet explains why declarations of states of local emergency should be made, who should make them and how they should be made. It also explains and clarifies some of the issues involved in declaring a state of local emergency.

This factsheet replaces the Declarations Director's Guideline [DGL 13/12]. The quick guide includes quick guidance for declaring a state of local emergency including key tests and considerations.

What is a state of local emergency?

A state of local emergency allows Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups to access emergency powers they would not normally have. These powers allow them to take actions to keep people safe such as:

  • closing roads or public places.
  • undertaking works – for example, earthworks required for stabilising land and properties.
  • entering a property to rescue people or save lives.
  • removing or securing dangerous structures and material.
  • providing first aid, food or shelter.

A state of local emergency also allows the Group Controller to direct and coordinate personnel and resources that are made available to them, such as staff from local government or central government agencies who have been deployed to support the response.

A state of emergency will only be declared if the emergency powers are likely to be needed or a significant and coordinated response may be required. Not all emergencies have a state of emergency declared.

You can still go about your daily business under a state of local emergency but make sure you listen to and follow any instructions from civil defence and emergency services.