Emergency services volunteers will be able to get the equipment and facilities they need to keep communities safe, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government’s new volunteer grants program.
Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino today visited Wattle Glen CFA to launch the new Emergency Services Volunteer Sustainability Grants Program, with $15 million in grants available to volunteers in 2016-17.
Mr Merlino also announced an extra $20 million for CFA volunteer brigades for 28 firefighting trucks, as well as work wear and protective clothing for thousands of volunteer firefighters.
The grants program is open to volunteer brigades and units across the state, including the CFA, Victorian SES, Life Saving Victoria, marine search and rescue teams and other organisations that fall under the Emergency Management Manual Victoria.
The grants can be used for a range of purposes, including:
- new trailers, hoses, rescue and safety equipment, generators and other operational equipment
- facility upgrades and maintenance
- training and development
- other needs that volunteers believe will assist their brigade or unit and improve services to the community.
Volunteer organisations interested in applying for the new grants program can find out more information at .
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino
“Our emergency service volunteers play a vital role in keeping the community safe and this new grants program will make sure they have the equipment they need.”
“While the former Coalition Government ripped tens of millions of dollars out of our fire services, we are hiring hundreds more firefighters, upgrading stations and giving our firefighters the equipment they need to keep the community safe.”
“I encourage volunteer brigades and units around the state to visit the Emergency Management Victoria website and apply for a grant.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020