A Nationals and Liberals Government will provide $1 million towards the proposed redevelopment of the Mildura SES Unit, delivering a major investment in the region’s emergency response capability.
The Mildura SES Unit is the district control centre for local storm and flood response and provides Road Crash Rescue, Search and Rescue and general rescue capability across the region.
The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, said the current facility had not kept pace with the critical role Mildura SES plays in supporting the community and other emergency services.
“Mildura is a regional emergency services hub, yet our SES headquarters does not even come close to reflecting that,” Ms Benham said.
“The facility hasn’t been upgraded since the 1950s. The changerooms are no longer adequate for the number of volunteers, and the office space, amenities and operational areas are outdated.
“Our SES volunteers need proper operational spaces, communications facilities and amenities so they can be equipped to support Ambulance Victoria, Victoria Police and fire services when major incidents occur.”
Ms Benham said a major SES response centre needed appropriate facilities to support both its operations and the volunteers who give their time to the community.
“Our volunteers give up their own time to help our community when people need it most. They deserve facilities that support the work they do, from the building infrastructure and operational spaces through to the amenities they need to carry out their role.”
The commitment forms part of the Fair Share Guarantee, which will direct 25 per cent of the State’s infrastructure investment to regional Victoria, ensuring communities like Mildura receive a greater share of investment in the infrastructure they need.
“We understand the demands placed on our emergency services and the importance of making sure they have the infrastructure and facilities needed to do their jobs effectively.
“Only The Nationals and Liberals in Government will deliver a Fair Share Guarantee and make the investments needed to properly support our emergency services and regional communities.”
