Applications open for Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program

APPLICATIONS are now open for the 2025-26 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) with an additional $15 million added to the available funding.

The annual program, funded by the Victorian government, provides grants to Victorian emergency service volunteer groups.

Funding is available under five categories including tankers, specialist support vehicles, operational equipment, volunteer amenities costing less than $5,000 and minor works costing less than $250,000.

Brigades and groups from across the state are encouraged to apply for the equipment, with funding open to the CFA, Life Saving Victoria, Victoria State Emergency Service, volunteer marine search and rescue units and more.

“VESEP supports volunteers by providing funding to replace or purchase equipment such as vehicles, trucks tankers, watercraft, trailers and can also include minor facility improvements,” CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said.

“One of the key focuses of the program will be aiding those brigades that have not previously benefited under VESEP and may face challenges with fundraising.”

A record $30 million we be available under this year’s round, double the amount of last year.

Minister for Emergency Services Vicki Ward said it is exciting to be able to offer volunteers the funding.

“This popular program receives a high amount of applications each year, so it’s fantastic this change will allow even more groups to access the support they need.

“These grants give volunteers the freedom to determine the best way to benefit their service, ensuring they receive precisely what they need to help support and protect their communities.”

In previous years, CFA received more than $11 million across 167 successful projects which has included six light tankers, 15 ultralight tankers, six new Big Gills and 18 field command vehicle replacements.

As part of the 2024-25 round more than 40 brigades received grants for minor works at their station.

Brigades and groups can only apply for one project per funding round, with applications closing on July 28.