Farmer News
1 November, 2026
Labor pledges emergency services boost
MEMBER for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora has announced Labor’s “biggest ever” volunteer emergency services equipment program.
Announced last month, the record round delivers almost $20 million for vehicles, more than $5 million for facility upgrades and more than $1 million for other operational equipment across the state.
“This will deliver new trucks, boats and facility upgrades for volunteers in every region, including the south west coast,” Ms Ermacora said.
“Our emergency volunteers are there for Victorians when it matters most and Labor is giving them the equipment and facilities to get the job done,” she said.
The following CFA brigades have been allocated funding:
Koroit and Portland brigades $76,400 each for a field command vehicle, Mepunga $2594 thermal imaging camera, Heywood $145,833 for an ultra light tanker, Heathmere $362,000 for a light tanker, Framlingham $2049 chainsaw PPC and storage boxes, Cudgee$2594 thermal imaging camera, and Cashmore $367,000 for a light tanker.
Two Victoria State Emergency Service units were also allocated funding - $103,996 to the Portland unit for a Ford Ranger 4WD utility, and $37,190 to Warrnambool towards a LHQ solar power and battery storage unit.
Portland Coast Guard has been allocated $195,900 for a new facility for toilets, showers, changerooms, storage and office space (including associated site works).
St John Ambulance (Warrnambool) was allocated almost $19,000 for an upgrade to the division’s training hub kitchen facilities (including electrical, plumbing, plastering, tiling and flooring works).