In January 2009, Victoria experienced an unprecedented statewide heatwave, with Melbourne experiencing three consecutive days of temperatures above 43°C and little overnight relief. The report by the Office of the Chief Health Officer concluded that there were 374 additional deaths during the heatwave in comparison to the previous five years. The Heatwave Planning Guide is designed to assist local councils in addressing the risks associated with heatwaves at a community level. Internationally, heatwave plans are commonly used to minimise the health impact of heatwaves