The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, has called for urgent action to increase funding for Victoria’s volunteer State Emergency Services (VICSES), highlighting concerns over the inadequate support being provided by the Allan Labor Government.
Ms Benham criticised the Labor Government and the Minister for Emergency Services for neglecting VICSES volunteers and failing to implement key recommendations from the 2022 Flood Inquiry report.
She labelled the latest state budget an “insult” to the dedicated volunteers who protect our communities.
“Volunteers are spending an enormous amount of time and effort fundraising to supply or replace basic necessities and equipment,” Ms Benham said.
“Local SES units have raised serious concerns with me about the lack of gear, outdated equipment, and lengthy delays in financial reimbursements.”
Ms Benham expressed her frustrations on behalf of SES units in the Mildura electorate, pointing out the significant burden placed on volunteers who provide critical emergency response services across northern Victoria.
“It is deeply concerning that our VICSES volunteers, who contributed almost half a billion dollars in work output last financial year, are being left in the lurch.
“Labor’s lack of respect for these selfless individuals is nothing short of astonishing.”
The Nationals are pushing for increased funding to upgrade outdated equipment, improve volunteer facilities, and address the operational shortcomings highlighted by VICSES representatives. Local SES units are also calling for guaranteed ongoing funding like that of fire services, ensuring sustainable support for the future.
Local SES units are seeking funding to complete Stage 2 of important upgrades. While the new garage has boosted operations, more improvements are needed to update volunteer facilities and meet current building and accessibility standards. These upgrades are key to attracting new volunteers and improving overall functionality.
The Nationals will continue to push for increased funding and reforms to ensure VICSES volunteers receive the support they need to protect our communities.
