Volunteer emergency service groups can apply for grants of up to $150,000 to help buy operational equipment and fund minor facility upgrades.
Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino has announced that applications are open for the 2018-19 round of Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program.
Under VESEP the Government matches every $1 paid by volunteer groups with $2 co-contribution, with the government this year increasing its maximum contribution from $100,000 to $150,000.
Mr Merlino said more than $13.34 million in government contributions is available to volunteer organisations in 2018-19, including:
- Almost $9.8 million for volunteer CFA brigades
- More than $2.1 million for Victoria State Emergency Service units
- More than $320,000 for Marine Search and Rescue, including the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association
- Almost $800,000 for Life Saving Victoria clubs
- More than $350,000 for other volunteer agencies
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino:
"The Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment program helps provide our hard working volunteers with the equipment they need to respond to emergencies and keep Victorians safe."
"Our Volunteers deserve to be well supported and that is why we are increasing the maximum grant available to them this year."
All program details are available via Brigades on Line >Home > Brigade > Property & Equipment > Brigade Owned Vehicles > Current VESEP Details.
Application packs are being mailed to every Brigade and Group Secretary.
Applications must be submitted to your local Operations Manager by 4th June 2018.
The Minister is expected to announce the approved projects in mid September 2018.
Any questions or queries regarding the program should be directed to:-
Diane Frost, Project Coordinator. Email d.frost@cfa.vic.gov.au or phone 03 9262 8630. You can also ask your Operations Manager.