The Victorian Government is ensuring our hardworking emergency services volunteers continue to have the latest, fit-for-purpose equipment and vehicles they need to do their life saving work.
Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes announced the popular Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) is open for applications.
VESEP is an ongoing, annual program that provides emergency services volunteer groups with grants to help fund operational equipment, including the purchase of new vehicles, trucks, tankers, watercraft and trailers.
Volunteer groups can also put the money towards minor facility improvements, including refurbishments and amenities, such as kitchens and change rooms.
In 2022-23, more than $14.6 million in grants are available to volunteer organisations across Victoria including:
- More than $10.60 million for volunteer CFA brigades.
- More than $2.39 million for VICSES units.
- More than $350,000 for Marine Search and Rescue (MSAR) units, including the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA).
- More than $835,000 for Life Saving Victoria clubs.
- More than $380,000 for other volunteer agencies.
Groups can apply for a grant up to $150,000 excluding GST, with the Government providing $2 for every $1 of funding contributed by the local volunteer group.
Since 2015, the Victorian Government has invested more than $100 million in VESEP grants to volunteer groups around the state.
Recent recipients include Sutton Grange and Myrtle Creek CFA, which received a grant to support the purchase of a Medium Tanker, Mildura Life Saving Club which used its grant for facility upgrades including the installation of wireless NBN and construction of a first aid room, and Knox VICSES unit which put its grant towards a new heavy rescue truck.
The 2022-23 VESEP applications are now open and close 26 May 2022. For more information about VESEP and to find out how to apply for a grant, visit emv.vic.gov.au/vesep.
Source: Vic Government