**State Government media release**
The Andrews Labor Government has invested $5.5 million to create a new CFA fire district in Morwell, boosting firefighting capacity and making the Latrobe Valley safer.
The Minister for Emergency Services, Jane Garrett, today joined Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing, in Morwell to announce the creation first new CFA district in 53 years.
District 27 will see 23 brigades across the region united under one roof and one command to share extra support staff, training and resources in an area that is vital to Victoria’s power generation.
The new district was an unfunded promise from the previous Liberal Government. The Labor Government has made it a reality with a $5.5 million investment.
District 27, which covers the Latrobe City Council area, will find the best ways to support brigades and strengthen relationships with industry partners to prevent and respond more effectively to incidents at their sites.
The importance of the Latrobe Valley’s role in the power grid for our state cannot be overstated. The new district is a real step to improve safety and security for the local community and Victoria as a whole.
District 27 will be operational from today and will be run out of interim headquarters in Morwell until a permanent base is established.
Quotes from the Minister for Emergency Services, Jane Garrett
“The Andrews Labor Government is investing in a new CFA fire district to make the Latrobe Valley safer.”
“We’re working hard to protect our communities and protect our firefighters.”
“A dedicated CFA district for the Latrobe Valley will mean the best resources and plans are in place to manage the risks in the area.”
Quotes from the Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing
“I’m very proud that the Andrews Labor Government is delivering this extra support and funding that Gippsland firefighters need to protect the community.”
“The Latrobe Valley is home to some of the state’s most important infrastructure and it’s vital that our emergency services have the resources to defend it and keep the community safe.”
Author: CFA Media