Deputy State Operations Controller

Scope

The Deputy State Operations Controller (DSOC) assists the State Operations Controller (SOC) in supervising NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) operations to control bush fires in NSW and respond to other emergencies for which it or the Commissioner are responsible; and will undertake any functions and duties delegated to them by the SOC.

Fundamental Protocols underpin the actions of all RFS members and must be adhered to at all times. They outline the Principles of being an RFS member and provide guidance on conduct to support the safety and wellbeing of members.

Accountabilities

• The duties of the State Duty Operations Officer (SDOO) unless otherwise directed.
• Assisting the SOC with their duties, as directed, having particular focus on:
  • Overseeing the efficient working of the State Operations Centre (OpsCen), in collaboration with the OpsCen Management Support Officer (MSO) and the Operational Communications Centre (OCC) Supervisor;
  • Supporting RFS operations in places that may not be in section 44 (s44) or other “declared” areas, in collaboration with the Major Incident Coordinators (MICs) and SDOO / OCC Supervisor;
  • Assisting MICs and the State Intelligence Coordinator (SIC) with evaluation of intelligence and provision of strategic advice to the SOC / Deputy Commissioners;
  • Liaising with State Operations functions regarding operations, safety issues, and maintaining situational awareness.
  • Supporting the Interstate/International Liaison Unit (ILU) with State resourcing priorities when this unit is operating; and
  • Liaising with other fire agencies, fire authorities, emergency services, and functional supporting agencies.
• Ensuring that statutory instruments are accurate before presenting for signature.
• Ensuring a State Operations Overview is created and circulated when required.
• Assisting the SOC to track and report on the effectiveness of backburning undertaken in the course of firefighting operations.
• Assisting the SOC with their initial response to a Critical Incident.
• Assisting the SOC with response to a Notifiable Incident including informing the senior operations group message.

Special Considerations

• From time to time, the SDOO may also be appointed to the role of the DSOC.
• The Commissioner has allocated these duties to the DSOC, pursuant to s12(2) of the Rural Fires Act 1997.

Related Information

• Rural Fires Act 1997
• Policy 4.1.1 - Financial Delegations