Post-bushfire federal government funding could have been dispersed more efficiently, if it was allocated to local councils, says Blue Mountains mayor Mark Greenhill.
"My concern is that financial assistance seems slower than it could be and I think it would be more efficient if this funding was given directly to local councils and we allocated it as we are on the ground and closer to the community. Councils are well-placed to allocate funds quickly," he said.
The council will put in a submission to the Royal Commission into Natural Disaster Arrangements.
In council's draft submission, which is to be finalised by CEO Rosemary Dillon, it says Commonwealth funds were promoted as being available for post-bushfire recovery, but "eligibility criteria and pathways for applying or competing for the funds were often less clear." This needs to be clearer, going forward, the submission says.
The use of Australian Defence Force capabilities could also be improved upon.
"ADF support was amazing and could be augmented in future events if local organisations had an overview in advance of the types of support the ADF could provide," Cr Greenhill said.
"This might allow greater forward planning and co-ordination of these incredible men and women way in advance of future fire seasons.
"We absolutely understand the complexity that occurs during natural disasters and every opportunity to forward plan will enhance response times and quality."
The council will also prepare a submission for the NSW independent inquiry into the 2019-20 bushfire season, focusing on state level issues of bushfire response and recovery, which will be presented to the April council meeting.