Thursday, 21 March 2024

Northern Victoria Region

Wendy LOVELL (Northern Victoria) (13:01): (784) My question is for the Minister for Emergency Services. Minister, CFA fire brigades are experiencing widespread serious maintenance issues with their primary fire and rescue vehicles that are not being repaired. Volunteers at a brigade near Kyneton are made to use a 26-year-old pumper that has dangerous issues with its air brakes. Last week the brake issue resulted in delayed turnouts to trapped persons in road rescues. The air issue also means that the fire truck may not be able to start its pump at a fire. CFA head office says the problem is unlikely to be fixed for some time and that there are no replacement pumpers available. Regional Victorian communities pay their fire service levy, yet they still have to fundraise for essential equipment, including vehicles. Minister, as you know, these issues have been brought to your attention on many occasions. Have you requested a full audit of maintenance issues within the CFA fleet, and if so, will you release it to the public?