A pre-budget announcement on Thursday, April 23 from the Victorian Government was aimed at ensuring local firefighters have access to the funding they need to keep communities safe.
Emergency Services Minister Vicki Ward said the Victorian Budget 2026-27 would deliver an expansion to CFA’s rolling fleet replacement program.
“Our volunteer and forest firefighters are on the frontline, protecting us when we need it most,” she said.
“We’ll keep delivering the equipment and facilities they need to keep Victorians safe.
“With this investment, our emergency services volunteers can keep doing this vital work for years to come.”
An additional $100 million for new CFA tankers and pumpers aims to ensure local firefighting fleet can protect Victorians.
The Budget also includes $26.2 million for CFA station builds, planning, land acquisition and upgrades.
Environment Minister Enver Erdogan said volunteers deserved modern, safe facilities that reflect the vital role they play in keeping Victorians safe.
The budget will also deliver $22.4 million for more wellbeing support, training and new protective gear.
“Whether it’s crews in the air or on the ground, we’re making sure our hard working fire services are ready for whatever gets thrown at them during fire season,” Mr Erdogan said.
There is also $217 million in the budget for Victorian forest firefighters which will allow for:
- The purchase 17 new assets including heavy tankers, dozers and graders
- To deliver upgrades to the vehicle fleet
- To secure the critical aviation fire fleet, and
- To conduct more planned burns and fuel management.
12°C