Wednesday, 2 April 2025

Fire Rescue Victoria

Report 2023–24

Sheena WATT (Northern Metropolitan) (17:34): I rise today to make a statement on the Fire Rescue Victoria 2023–24 annual report and to just let folks here in the chamber know that this report in fact tells a powerful story – one of dedication, bravery and innovation. I am incredibly proud to share how these efforts have made a significant impact on the communities of Victoria, in particular in Northern Metro. In a year marked by challenges, Fire Rescue Victoria’s firefighters have shown unwavering courage, professionalism and resilience. Their work continues to save lives, protect property and strengthen community safety, and for that, they deserve our deepest gratitude.

One of the most impressive highlights in this report is FRV’s response times. Their crews responded to 94.9 per cent of emergency medical incidents within the service standard of 9 minutes and 12 seconds. This is a remarkable achievement that undoubtedly saved lives. Equally impressive, FRV improved their response times to structure fires, with 86 per cent of incidents attended within the critical target of 7 minutes and 42 seconds. This is particularly important in high density areas like Brunswick, Northcote and Coburg where fast intervention is crucial to protecting both residential and commercial properties. Over the past year our firefighters have faced some truly challenging situations in my electorate. Firefighters responded to a dangerous fire in Carlton in a student accommodation complex caused by a lithium ion battery explosion. Thanks to their rapid response and skilful containment efforts, more than 50 residents were safely evacuated with no serious injuries.

Speaking of batteries, I want to emphasise the importance of safely disposing of lithium batteries. Victorians can safely dispose of lithium batteries at over 1000 sites across Victoria, including at your local Bunnings and at many local councils. Seeing some vision lately does just reaffirm the importance of disposing of them thoughtfully.

In addition to their courageous response efforts, FRV has embraced innovation to strengthen their capabilities. This year FRV proudly introduced EVIE, Victoria’s first electric fire truck. You might have seen it around here in fact. The Electric Vehicle for Incident and Emergency is more than just a vehicle, it is symbol of progress. With zero-emissions technology, advanced fire-suppression capabilities and improved safety features, EVIE is a crucial step towards a greener and more efficient emergency response fleet.

FRV has also introduced electronic patient care records, allowing firefighters to provide real-time medical information directly to Ambulance Victoria. This innovation is already improving continuity of care for patients, really a vital step forward in enhanced public safety.

Prevention is just as important as response, I must say, and FRV has made outstanding progress in improving fire safety awareness across the region. In 2023–24 firefighters delivered 718 fire education and risk reduction sessions, more than double the previous year. These programs are crucial to educating vulnerable and multicultural communities about battery safety and fire safety. Importantly, FRV has taken some really proactive steps to address the threat of lithium ion battery fires, which are becoming increasingly common in urban environments. By educating residents about safe charging and storage practices, FRV is helping to prevent these dangerous incidents before they occur.

Our fire services should reflect the communities they serve. I am proud to highlight FRV’s progress in building a more diverse workforce. Today FRV employs 219 women firefighters. While there is still more work to be done, this progress is entirely encouraging, and I commend FRV for actively recruiting from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, bilingual speakers and regional Victorians. Diversity in the fire service is not just about fairness, it is about ensuring our firefighters can connect with and support every community they serve.

We know that climate change is bringing more frequent and severe weather events, from floods to extreme heat waves. The risks facing communities in Victoria are evolving and FRV’s investment in specialised training, including urban search and rescue, hazardous material response and road crash rescue, ensures our firefighters are equipped to face these challenges head on.

The Fire Rescue Victoria annual report is more than just a document, it is a powerful reminder of the incredible work our firefighters do each and every day. Their dedication, bravery and innovation should be celebrated. I am immensely proud of their achievements and deeply grateful for the work they do to put themselves in harms way to protect Victorians.