Thousands of Country Fire Authority volunteers across the state have expressed their frustration with the Allan Labor Government, marking the government poorly on virtually every area of CFA management and operations in a key survey.
The annual Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) survey received responses from more than 2000 CFA volunteers, with six out of seven survey themes recording a drop in volunteer satisfaction with the government.
Drops were recorded in the areas of respect for the role of volunteers and support from the CFA, and particularly in training and the provision of up-to-date appliances.
Of particular concern is the worst-ever recorded response in relation to the Allan Labor Government providing sufficient funding for CFA trucks and stations.
Leader of The Nationals and Shadow Minister for Emergency Services, Danny O’Brien, said the survey reflects the frustration of CFA volunteers.
“For more than a decade now, the Labor government has disrespected the CFA and particularly its volunteers,” Mr O’Brien said.
“It’s alarming to see the lack of confidence that our volunteers have in the Allan Labor Government.
“Clearly they don’t believe the government’s rhetoric about supporting appliances and new stations, with the survey recording the worst ever result on that issue.
“Worse still, the survey was completed before legislation creating the new emergency services tax had passed Parliament. All the evidence shows that tax is about filling budget black holes, not supporting our frontline firefighters.
“This new tax has been slapped on Victorians at a time of a cost of living crisis and that’s why the Liberals and Nationals will scrap it if elected next year, while restoring the independence of the CFA and giving respect back to our volunteers.”
