Shire wins by playing it safe

CARDINIA Shire has been named among Victoria’s safest municipalities for accidents in public places.
The rating was handed down by insurance group CMP which rates almost all of Victoria’s shires and cities for public liability insurance purposes.
To rate the shire’s safety, CMP surveyed council places, equipment and services across a variety of potential risk areas.
It evaluated the condition and quality of council roads, footpaths, swimming pools, playgrounds, street trees, council building and hall safety, and children’s facilities.
It also evaluated how quickly councils responded to complaints and reports of potential hazards.
CMP then assessed the risks of injury and damage to people and property. The higher the score, the safer the shire. Cardinia scored 83 out of 100, just three points below Victoria’s top score of 86.
Council’s organisation development manager Steve Swiderski said the good rating hadn’t happened by ‘accident’.
“Just a few years ago we were actually rated fourth from the bottom, and now we’re third from the top,” he said.
“We credit this dramatic improvement to the decision to appoint a dedicated risk management officer. It’s his job to regularly inspect the shire’s public places and assets and minimise any potential hazards.”
Mr Swiderski said the position had paid for itself in fewer claims, lower insurance premiums and in the increased safety and feeling of security for residents.
“We’re still working to improve wherever possible, however, and will focus on areas we can improve such as tree maintenance and branch clearance around powerlines,” he said.