The Nationals’ Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, says CFA volunteers across the region will benefit from a major investment in new fire trucks, upgraded stations and volunteer recruitment under an elected Liberals and Nationals Government.
As part of a $200 million statewide commitment, the plan will deliver 335 new CFA trucks over five years, 17 new and upgraded stations, and a recruitment drive targeting an additional 10,000 volunteers over the next decade.
“Our CFA volunteers are on the frontline protecting our communities, often putting themselves in harm’s way to keep local families, homes and businesses safe,” Mr McCurdy said.
“Across the Ovens Valley, we know just how important a well-equipped and properly supported CFA is, particularly as our communities face the ongoing threat of bushfires.
“After 12 years of Labor, 57 per cent of CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria trucks are at least 15 years old, while CFA operational volunteer numbers have fallen by 26 per cent over the past decade.
“That is simply not good enough. Our volunteers deserve modern equipment, fit-for-purpose facilities and the support they need to do their jobs safely.”
Mr McCurdy said the investment would form part of a broader plan to improve bushfire preparedness and reduce the risk of devastating fires across regional Victoria.
It follows a commitment by the Liberals and Nationals to double planned fuel reduction burning, work towards the Bushfire Royal Commission’s five per cent target, restore strategic firebreaks and improve forest management.
“Communities throughout the Ovens Valley understand the devastating impact bushfires can have. We cannot afford to wait until the next major fire to get serious about prevention,” Mr McCurdy said.
“An elected Liberals and Nationals Government will deliver a practical plan to reduce bushfire risk, modernise our firefighting fleet, recruit more volunteers and scrap Labor’s unfair emergency services tax.
“Our volunteers give so much to protect our communities. It is time they received the investment and support they deserve.”
