The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, has asked Minister for Emergency Services, Vicki Ward, for an update on emergency services infrastructure in Birchip, including the SES upgrade program and storage arrangements for the local ambulance vehicle.
Ms Benham said the current situation highlighted practical gaps in local infrastructure.
“At the moment, the ambulance vehicle used by local Community Emergency Response Team Ambulance Community Officers does not have a formal storage location, and the SES unit is still waiting on its upgrade,” she said.
“These are straightforward, practical issues that directly affect emergency response capability on the ground.”
Ms Benham said reliable and fit-for-purpose facilities were essential in rural and isolated communities.
“When emergencies happen, people need confidence that local emergency services are properly equipped and able to respond quickly.
“These are not ‘nice to have’ upgrades. They are basic infrastructure requirements that can’t be delayed.”
Ms Benham said it was unacceptable that communities like Birchip were still waiting on basic emergency services infrastructure, despite significant funds being collected through the emergency services levy.
“People expect to see that money delivering real outcomes in their communities, not delays to essential services and facilities.”
Ms Benham said she would continue to advocate to ensure Birchip’s emergency services are properly supported into the future.
