Grants to support volunteer firefighters

VOLUNTEER firefighting brigades can now apply for grants of up to $250,000 through a $10 million state government funded.

The program will be administered by the CFA to support volunteer brigade equipment and facility upgrades, as well as local initiatives that strengthen volunteerism and brigade culture.

Grants will be provided to projects that address a range of key criteria, including:

• Addressing immediate needs and enhancing operational capability
• Improving culture, diversity and fairness
• Strengthening volunteer leadership skills
• Encouraging recruitment, retention and recognition of volunteers, and
• Reflecting the evolving needs and demographics of the communities that volunteer brigades serve.

The grants program has been funded through the $60 million that the state government announced for Victoria’s fire services in October.

“This $10 million grants program recognises the vital role that volunteer firefighters play in protecting lives and properties,” Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino said.

“Our volunteers are often the first line of defence against fires, floods and other emergencies, and we want to support them in every way we can.

“Our reforms provide more support, more independence and more funding to volunteers – and that’s exactly what they deserve.”

CFA chief officer Steve Warrington said the grants will help volunteer brigades build on the outstanding service they provide to the community.

“We have consulted widely with our volunteers to identify the best ways we can enhance volunteerism, and this program is one of the key measures we have adopted as a result of that process.”

Brigades can work together and submit joint applications, and have until the end of February to apply.

For more information, head to cfa.vic.gov.au.