The Allan Labor Government has delivered a $10 million funding cut to the State Emergency Service (VICSES) at the very time demand for assistance is increasing and communities are facing greater emergency pressures.
The VICSES 2024-25 Annual Report, tabled in Parliament this week, confirms that the service is now operating with fewer resources despite recording one of its busiest years in record.
Rising callouts – particularly for supporting other emergency agencies, are unprecedented strain on VICSES volunteer workforce.
The Nationals’ Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, said the funding cut highlights a growing pattern of Labor failing to back frontline volunteers.
“Labor continues to starve our volunteer emergency services of funding, all while taxing Victorians $3 billion under its new emergency services tax.
“Our volunteers deserve support, not spin. This funding cut shows the government is not serious about properly resourcing our frontline emergency agencies.
“It’s astonishing that in question time last sitting week, the Minister denied the facts clearly outlined in the Annual Report.”
Ms O’Keeffe said the consequences of the funding cut will be felt across the state.
“Cutting $10 million from the VICSES at a time of rising callouts makes absolutely no sense. It means fewer resources, more pressure on hardworking volunteers, and slower responses when Victorians need help the most.
“Communities rely on VICSES volunteers during their worst moment. They deserve a government that recognises their service, not one that cuts their funding,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“The Allan Labor Government can’t manage money, can’t manage our emergency services and Victorians are paying the price.”
