Attorney-General Robert McClelland has highlighted the need for all Australians living in areas of high bushfire risk to have access to mitigation tools.

In its response to the Senate Select Committee on Agricultural and Related Industries’ report on the incidence and severity of bushfires across Australia, the Federal Government agrees there needs to be consultation between all levels of government in the development of a house loss risk index for those living in the highest-risk areas.

The report, released last August, includes 15 recommendations which if adopted could help reduce the number and severity of bushfire catastrophes in Australian communities.

Mr McClelland says while there is “no way to fireproof the country”, the Commonwealth strongly support actions by all levels of government, businesses and communities to help reduce the risks.

He says the cooler months must be used to prepare for the summer and that there is no room for complacency when it comes to bushfire threats.

“While catastrophic floods dominated our last disaster season, unfortunately it’s no secret the next bushfire season is not far away,” he said.

The Government submission says there is a clear need for Australians to be able to understand disaster risks to be able to “make adequate preparations and informed decisions”.

It points out that the Victorian Government has already undertaken a number of initiatives following the release of the bushfires royal commission report.

“The Commonwealth will consult with the states and territories on the need for a house index,” the submission said.

The Government also supports a Senate recommendation for a new permanent research institute following the cessation of the Bushfire Co-operative Research Centre in 2013.

“The Commonwealth will work with states and territories to develop options for bushfire research within the nationally agreed all-hazards framework through existing institutions.”