The Victoria State Emergency Service has received significant funding from the Victorian Government to improve infrastructure and facilities, aiding the important work that our volunteers do by providing better facilities for response, training and community engagement.

The investment enables VICSES to carry out urgent maintenance, repairs and upgrades to extend the life and improve the safety of their existing facility and asset portfolios. The works will also stimulate the local economy, supporting Victorian businesses and workers affected by the downturn in the Victorian economy caused by the pandemic, providing a boost in employment within local communities across the state.

Funds in excess of $4 million will be channelled to projects commencing in the coming weeks at 55 local VICSES Units, including major works at the following locations:

• Maroondah Unit - upgrades to unit facilities for compliance and maintenance
• Kerang Unit – general facility improvements
• Ararat Unit - replacement of roof and repairs to facilities
• Bendigo Unit - external refurbishment
• Castlemaine Unit – general facility improvements
• Nillumbik Unit - Urgent maintenance and general facility improvements
• Hamilton Unit - Essential fire audit maintenance and building safety works

VICSES CEO Stephen Griffin commented, saying “VICSES welcomes the investment announcements into facility refurbishments. We are driven by our vision of Safer Communities – Together, and safe and contemporary facilities are vital in continuing to support our volunteers and deliver important emergency services to the community.”

The funding will be administered by the Community Safety Building Authority, which oversees infrastructure projects on behalf of the Department of Justice and Community Safety.

For more information on the works, contact media@ses.vic.gov.au