Friday, 15 December 2017

Volunteer firefighting brigades in Gippsland can now apply for grants of up to $250,000, thanks to a new $10 million program funded by the Andrews Labor Government.

The program will be administered by the CFA to support vital 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
• Reflecting the evolving needs and demographics of the communities that volunteer brigades serve.

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

Brigades in Gippsland have until the end of February 2018 to apply. For more information, visit cfa.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Services and Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing:

“I encourage brigades right across Gippsland to apply for additional funding under this new program, particularly to encourage more local participation and to deliver better facilities.”

“We are working hard to provide volunteers all over the state with more funding and active support than ever before – this program is another important part of recognising the enormous contribution that they make every day.”