This Budget ensures Victorians can rely on our emergency service operators and workforce to look after us in times of need:
- $40 million to transition 50 Forest Fire Management Victoria firefighters into full‑time roles, continue 54 short‑term firefighter roles in 2023‑24, as well as funding to maintain strategic fuel breaks so that we can better prepare for and respond to fire emergencies.
- $34 million for upgrades to emergency services facilities including CFA stations, VICSES facilities, Life Saving Victoria facilities and marine rescue resources.
- $13 million to continue critical lifesaving services, including support for volunteer and paid lifeguards, rescue jet ski operations and developing and maintaining the Safer Pools Code of Practice to keep Victorians safe in the water.
- $2 million to further support reform of the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA), and additional investment for a new computer system to support emergency services Triple Zero call‑taking and dispatch functions, so Victorians can get connected to the urgent help they need in an emergency.
Reviewed 19 May 2023