General News
30 November, 2025
Substantial boost for local brigades
EMERGENCY services volunteers in Northern Grampians Shire will receive more trucks, equipment and modern facilities to help keep communities safe through the Victorian Government’s Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP). Member for Ripon Martha Haylett has welcomed the announcement of this year’s VESEP grants, which will deliver new vehicles, equipment and facility upgrades across Victoria.
This year’s round delivers more than $30 million in grants – the largest ever – across the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES), Life Saving Victoria, Volunteer Marine Search and Rescue, and other emergency service organisations.
Funding for this round includes almost $20 million for more than 40 vehicles, more than $5 million to update 15 facilities and more than $1 million for operational equipment across the state.
Locally, Great Western Fire Brigade is the biggest winner, receiving $310,000 towards a new light tanker.
Halls Gap Fire Brigade will receive $93,334 to extend its workshop and Stawell Fire Brigade has been awarded $71,000 towards the purchase of a new command vehicle.
VESEP is an annual grants program that helps Victorian emergency services volunteer groups purchase essential equipment or make facility improvements so they can strengthen and support their vital work.
Volunteer groups can apply for grants of up to $250,000 – an increase of $100,000 from the previous maximum – with the Government contributing $2 for every $1 raised by the local volunteer group.
Ms Haylett said the grants were helping to ensure local brigades have the equipment and facilities they need to keep communities safe.
“These grants are incredibly popular every year, and we’ll keep backing in our volunteers, helping them focus on what they do best – protecting lives and property.”
“With more funding on offer than ever before – almost double – we’re showing our determination to support our hardworking emergency services volunteers.”
“This funding boost will make a real difference and give so many CFA brigades and SES units across our region the modern equipment and vehicles they deserve,” Ms Haylett said.
Read More: Great Western, Halls Gap, Stawell