The Nationals’ Melina Bath has called for an increase in funding for VICSES to adequately fund Victoria’s volunteer state emergency services units in state parliament.
Ms Bath criticised Labor’s Minister for Emergency Services for failing to provide adequate funding for VICSES and fast track the recommendations from the 2022 Flood Inquiry report.
Speaking in state parliament, Ms Bath said Labor’s lack of support for the state emergency service (SES) is “remarkable, astonishing and devastating for volunteers”, and labelled this year’s state budget an “insult”.
“Volunteers are spending an enormous amount of time and effort fundraising to supply or replace basic necessities and equipment.
“Representatives from eight of my local SES units have raised serious concerns with me about the lack of gear, outdated equipment, and lengthy delays in financial reimbursements.
“Our emergency volunteers are highly frustrated and disrespected having to wait eight months for reimbursements on chainsaw oil and petrol.”
Ms Bath highlighted that almost 5000 volunteers contributed over 285,000 hours last financial year, equating to almost half a billion dollars in work output.
“Despite such significant community contributions, Labor is continuing to undervalue and disrespect our emergency services volunteers.
“The flood inquiry recommended the Victorian Government increase VICSES funding to upgrade emergency communication technologies, critical resources and enhance volunteer programs.
“Labor can’t manage money, can’t manage emergency response services and Victorians are paying the price.”
