WA bushfire review led by fire expert

A review into the deadly bushfires in Western Australia's South West region will have similar powers to a royal commission, and is to be led by a former head of the Victorian Country Fire Authority.

Euan Ferguson is widely experienced in bushfire mitigation and response, having also previously been at the helm of the South Australian Country Fire Service.

Mr Ferguson will begin his investigation within several weeks and will have the power to compel witnesses to attend, produce documents and give evidence under oath.

The independent review will examine the response to the blaze and also consider the extent to which lessons learned from previous reports and incidents had been applied by relevant authorities.

The lightning-sparked blaze killed two elderly men, destroyed 181 properties including 162 houses, and has burnt more than 69,000 hectares since it started on January 6.

Premier Colin Barnett visited fire-ravaged Yarloop on Wednesday to announce the review and meet residents.

"Legitimate questions have been asked about the response to this fire and, in particular, the circumstances of the devastation of Yarloop and the tragic loss of two lives," he said.

"This review will get to the bottom of these matters and will provide the government and the public with answers and recommendations for improvement.

"Mr Ferguson will be provided with whatever support he requires to undertake his role."

Former WA governor Ken Michael has also been appointed to oversee community recovery efforts, including chairing a state recovery co-ordination group.

The premier said Dr Michael would play a key role in ensuring services and support to fire-affected communities were directed where they were most needed, as well as considering future planning for Yarloop.

More than $4 million has been raised through the Lord Mayor's Distress Relief Fund.

Fire and Emergency Services commissioner Wayne Gregson said he did not fear the inquiry because firefighters did their best.

The Education Department says Yarloop Primary School will relocate to nearby Harvey for the start of the new school year.

Director general Sharyn O'Neill said while classroom buildings had escaped largely unscathed, ongoing safety concerns in the town meant it was not feasible to re-open the site for the start of term.

THE REVIEW WILL EXAMINE:

* The response to the blaze

* Lessons learned from previous bushfire emergencies

* The need for further reform