A comparative analysis of agency approaches in two countries

It has been widely demonstrated that a strong relationship between police, fire and land management agencies can increase capacities for successful bushfire investigation. The central question therefore is how can co-operative arrangements be improved upon, given current investigation practices. The aim of this study is to identify strengths and weaknesses in knowledge sharing between bushfire investigative related agencies.<br><br>The research involves an international comparative analysis, via a case study design. Internal practices and procedures in undertaking bushfire investigation were examined in six investigative departments in Italy and Australia (Victoria). Using focus groups, face to face interviews and policy analysis, the intra and inter agency sharing knowledge was analysed. Such sharing is seen as the key factor of any organisational collaboration and indeed organisational effectiveness.<br><br>The ability of the investigators to “improvise”, based on their personal working experience, was found to be an integral, if not preferred, part of the investigator’s role. Tacit knowledge (personal initiative and creative input) is considered to be as important, if not more valuable, than explicit (formalized) knowledge (rules and protocols) by the majority of bushfire investigators. The main difference between the two countries is that in Australia, bushfire investigators are more focused towards technical and process orientated skills (knowledge and experience – analytical mind). Conversely, in Italy, bushfire investigators give equal importance to both technical and social skills (communication and social abilities). The outcomes reinforce the assumed advantages of an all agencies approach as long as knowledge and information sharing processes adequately support this development. This will result in more efficient and well-targeted fire prevention and suppression strategies, based on investigation.