Multi-million dollar boost for Victoria's emergency service volunteers

The Andrews Labor Government will provide up to $12.54 million to help volunteer emergency services organisations protect lives and properties across the state.

Minister for Emergency Services, Jane Garrett, today announced the opening of the 2015-16 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).

 “Volunteers are the backbone of many emergency services organisations. Their dedication and hard work keeps our communities safe” she said.

“The Andrews Labor Government is supporting emergency service volunteers by providing them access to funds to carry out their roles safely and efficiently.”

VESEP offers grants of up to $100,000 for emergency service volunteer groups to assist them when responding to emergencies such as fires, floods, heatwaves, storms, water rescues or related incidents.

The grants are used to purchase additional operational equipment, vehicles, trucks, tankers, watercraft, trailers and support minor facility improvements.

The Labor Government will contribute $2 for every $1 of funding contributed by the local volunteer groups.

The program is open to:

• Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Associatio
• Country Fire Authority
• Life Saving Victoria
• Victoria State Emergency Service
• Other eligible volunteer emergency services groups as defined in the Emergency Management Manual Victoria.

The Labor Government’s commitment of $12.54 million towards the program is almost $400,000 more than the previous year. For further information, visit www.emv.vic.gov.au