New exemption makes it easier for farmers to fight fires

Farmers can play a key role in protecting their own or neighbouring properties in the event of a bush or a grass fire, particularly before emergency response personnel are able to attend the fire.

Now, during a trial period that ends on 31 March, the NSW Government is allowing farmers to drive vehicles they use for firefighting purposes unregistered within a 100km radius of their home.

Farm Fire Fighting Vehicles (FFFVs) tend to be vehicles used to move around farm properties and not on public roads, and therefore may not be registered.

The legal use of these vehicles on public roads to attend nearby fires is an important change during the final few months of the bushfire season, and is something many farmers and rural advocates have been calling for.

The RFS has recognised the value of these vehicles  and the important role farmers play in firefighting efforts in rural areas.

As well as staying within a 100km radius of the storage address, the vehicle must be maintained in a safe operating condition and have fire-fighting equipment permanently attached to be eligible for the exemption.

The trial will run until March 31 this year and will inform future options for FFFVs. For further information and to nominate a vehicle for the trial, visit nswroads.work/fffv.

Farmers can also contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit your nearest Service NSW Service Centre.

Minister for Roads John Graham said:

“The Labor Government is committed to exploring innovative solutions to help out with rural firefighting efforts and this trial will do just that.”

“For the duration of the trial, farmers will see the removal of red tape that will allow them to ready vehicles for protecting land, property, stocks and crops.”

“The mosquito fleet as it’s affectionately known, has been an incredible asset for regional, rural and remote areas and I am glad the Labor Government is supporting the farmers to continue their vital, life saving work.”

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

“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.”

“February and March could be challenging months for bush and grass fires, and it is expected this exemption will make it easier for landholders to fight fires on or near their properties.”

“This trial reflects our commitment to strengthening community safety and resilience, particularly in rural bush and grass fire-prone regions.”

Commissioner of the RFS Rob Rogers said:

“Landowners with these vehicles and equipment play a critical role as initial responders to grass fires.”

“This will lead to an even more integrated relationship between farmers and the RFS, leveraging all available resources and the expertise and dedication of farmers in safeguarding our communities.”

NSW Farmers Rural Affairs committee member Garry Grant said:

“Stopping fires as soon as we can to minimise damage and loss is the ultimate goal.”

“The opportunity to take part in this trial will see the important relationship between the RFS and farmers develop even further.”