Farmers urged to sign up for new vehicle initiative to help fight fires

A collaboration between Transport for NSW and the NSW Rural Fire Service, the trial enables the use of private Farm Fire Fighting Vehicles (FFFVs) without registration, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria.

Also known as Farm Fire Units (FFU), the nominated FFFVs must comply with stringent guidelines, including the permanent attachment of fire-fighting equipment, operation within a 100km radius of the storage address, and be maintained in a safe operating condition.

These measures ensure that while not registered, these vehicles are adequately equipped to assist in emergency situations and contribute effectively to firefighting efforts.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib urged farmers across NSW to make the most of the trial before nominations close on March 31.

“Landholders in rural areas can play a key firefighting role and this trial allows us to test an arrangement that rural advocates have been calling for,” Minister Dib said.

“By allowing farmers to collaborate more seamlessly with the RFS in safeguarding their properties and those of their neighbours, this arrangement could enhance the state’s bush fire capabilities.”

Commissioner of the RFS Rob Rogers acknowledged the valuable contribution of these units in rural firefighting efforts, particularly with landholders often serving as initial responders.

“Allowing eligible farm fire vehicles to operate without registration ensures a more swift and coordinated response during emergency bush fire incidents,” Commissioner Rogers said.

“With high grass fuel loads across the state, getting on top of fires as soon as we can is crucial to minimise loss and damage.

“The Bush Fire Danger Period is still in place for most of NSW, so it is timely that those who can take advantage of this opportunity do so.”

To nominate a vehicle for the trial, visit Transport NSW, complete the trial nomination form and provide two photographs of the nominated vehicle.

For further information, contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit your nearest Service NSW centre.