NSW first responders benefit from budget

Summary

Record funding will deliver state-of-the-art rescue vehicles, boats, and trailers, upgrade communications networks, and see continued investment in infrastructure to provide emergency services with the support needed to protect our communities.

The emergency services budget for 2018-19 will, for the first time, top $1.6 billion with more than $134 million spent on equipment and infrastructure.

Minister for Emergency Services Troy Grant said that the NSW State Emergency Services (NSW SES) and their volunteers will receive $56.4 million for around 500 new vehicles, marine vessels and trailers as part of a massive fleet upgrade to better equip our heroes in orange to tackle floods, storms and other emergencies.

“The work of NSW SES volunteers is vital, their contribution is invaluable and by continuing to invest in our volunteers we ensure they stand ready to tackle any emergency at a moment’s notice,” Mr Grant said.

“Our tireless volunteers deserve vehicles and equipment that ensures their lifesaving tasks are performed safely with maximum efficiency and in minimum time.”

The NSW Government is also investing $42.9 million to enhance and expand coverage of the Government Radio Network so volunteers and personnel can perform their roles effectively and efficiently. 30,000 ageing terminals including individual user handsets and vehicle consoles for public safety agencies will be replaced.

“Telecommunication technology evolves rapidly and we’re making sure our agencies have the resources that will put them ahead of the game when it comes to saving lives.”

The NSW Liberal & Nationals Government also continues to support our NSW Rural Fire Services (NSW RFS) volunteers and the invaluable work they do fighting bush fires. This year nearly $9.5 million will be invested in the effective Large Air Tanker and Very Large Air Tanker aerial water-bombers.

The 2018/19 budget also invests more than $74 million for capital works for Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW). This includes more funding for new fire stations in Ryde, Parkes, South West Rocks, West Tamworth, Kariong, Eden and the refurbishment of the City of Sydney Station. $17 million will also be spent on new and modern appliances for FRNSW firefighters.

Mr Grant said the NSW Liberal & Nationals Government is committed to ensuring the emergency services agencies stand ready to answer the call when times are tough and the community should feel confident they are well equipped.

When disaster strikes the public expects the fastest and most reliable response from all our agencies and this funding will enhance the ability of our emergency services to respond in times of need,” Mr Grant said.

“Day in and day out our emergency service workers put their lives on the line to ensure our safety. This Budget will help enhance, renew and rebuild our emergency services infrastructure, equipment and resources so volunteers and personnel can protect us against Mother Nature and other extreme events,” Mr Grant said.

Contact Name: Douglas Martin

Contact Phone: 0438 371 354