Thursday, 27 August 2020

The Victorian Government is providing $14 million for emergency services volunteers to fund new equipment and vehicles and support their tireless efforts keeping the community safe.

Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing today announced applications are open for the latest round of Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) grants.

VESEP provides a platform for the government to partner with local organisations to provide the financial support the state’s volunteers need. Through the program, the government contributes $2 for every $1 raised by volunteer groups, with co-contribution grants of up to $150,000 available.

Grants can be used to help purchase new vehicles, trucks, tankers, watercraft and trailers, other operational equipment and facility improvements.

Volunteer groups can also put the money towards minor facility improvements.

Announcing the opening of VESEP funding applications for 2020-21, Ms Shing praised the ongoing hard work of the state’s emergency volunteer groups throughout an incredibly challenging year.

VESEP has provided more than $90 million to volunteer groups around the state over the last six years, with the government committed to boosting support through the program into the future.

Grants available to volunteer organisations across the state include:

• more than $10 million for volunteer CFA brigades
• more than $2.3 million for Victoria State Emergency Service units
• more than $330,000 for Marine Search and Rescue, including the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association
• more than $800,000 for Life Saving Victoria clubs
• more than $370,000 for other volunteer agencies.

For more information about VESEP and to find out how to apply for a grant, visit www.emv.vic.gov.au/vesep.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing

“Over the last year – throughout bushfires, storms and a global pandemic – Victorians have seen the incredible work that our emergency service volunteers do every day to serve and support their communities.”

“Through the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program, we’ll continue to ensure our volunteers are well supported and have access to the best available equipment and facilities to keep themselves and the state safe.”