News

Victorian Government and Opposition clash over SES funding

By Simon Ruppert

Dec 11, 2025

The Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund caused protests outside parliament when it was announced. Photo by Contributed

State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has accused the Victorian Government of cutting $10 million from VICSES.

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The government, however, say no cuts have been made.

Ms Cleeland had pointed to the SES 2024-25 Annual Report, recently tabled in parliament.

She said it confirmed the service was now operating with reduced funding despite recording one of its busiest years on record — particularly in the support it provided to other emergency agencies.

Ms Cleeland said that cut placed even greater strain on volunteer units across regional Victoria, including those in the Euroa electorate.

“Our SES volunteers are the people who show up at all hours, in all conditions, to keep our communities safe,” Ms Cleeland said.

“They don’t ask for much, just the resources and support they need to do their jobs.”

A government spokesperson said Ms Cleeland’s claim that there had been a cut to SES funding was incorrect.

“We won't take lectures from Annabelle Cleeland and the Nationals on supporting our emergency services,” the spokesperson said.

“Jess Wilson and the Nationals will cut your volunteer rebate, cut funding to local units and cut trucks.

“When disaster strikes, the Liberals and Nationals will leave country Victorians on their own.

"The ESVF is about keeping communities safe year-round from the increasing risk of bushfires, floods and natural disasters, which are happening more frequently and disproportionately impact our regional communities."

Ms Cleeland said it was concerning to see the minister refuse to acknowledge the cut despite it being “clearly outlined in the annual report”.

“The numbers are there in black and white. When demand is up, funding should not be going backwards,” Ms Cleeland said.

“This decision means fewer resources on the ground, slower response times for families who need help, and more pressure on volunteers who are already stretched thin.”

Ms Cleeland said the SES played a crucial role in local emergency response — from storm damage and road rescues to supporting major emergencies — and should be properly supported.

“Our communities rely on the SES. They deserve a government that takes emergency services seriously, rather than one that continues to short-change the very volunteers who keep us safe,” she said.