The potential for more flooding in Victoria cannot be ignored, with dams at or near capacity providing limited flood mitigation capacity, a report into the state’s summer flood disaster has warned.

The interim report by former police chief Neil Comrie says the State Emergency Service was overwhelmed by the size and prolonged nature of the flooding and the emergency services agencies operate in a “silo” structure, with each focused on its legislated obligations to address specific hazards.

“Given the very real potential for future floods, fires and other major emergencies, it is imperative that these fundamental flaws are addressed as a matter of urgency,” the report says.

Mr Comrie says immediate action is required to reconstruct legislation, policy, procedures and structures so emergency agencies can respond to all hazards.

“There is a pressing need for an immediate improvement of Victoria’s incident management capacity and capability within the context of a state emergency management strategy.”

The report says that between September 2010 and February this year, about one-third of Victoria and more than 4000 houses and businesses were affected by flooding or storm damage. It estimates that agricultural losses reached $269 million and lost tourism revenue $176 million.

Major regional flooding occurs in Victoria every 10-20 years and long-term flood damage costs about $350 million a year.

The review held community consultations attended by 550 people that raised a need for better co-ordination of emergency services, more flood monitoring and localised, relevant advice. Councils raised concerns about their capacity to manage large events and a lack of flood plans and studies.

The report says it is premature to make recommendations and these will be in the final report to be delivered to the Victorian Government on December 1.