Emergency volunteer grants open

HARDWORKING volunteers across Victoria’s emergency services will benefit from new grants made available for trucks, equipment, and modern facilities to help keep their communities safe. The state government’s $30m Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) opened on Tuesday, 3 June to allow emergency groups to access funds for individual projects. Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced that this year’s grants were double last year’s amount and the most ever offered in one round. The funding is made available from the state’s Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) levy. Over the next four years, an additional $62 million will be provided from the ESVF which is expected to double the VESEP. Ms Symes said this year’s record value of grants was ‘really exciting’. “It’s a program that’s overwhelmed with applications every year,” she said. “This will mean more groups can get support.” Groups can apply for a grant of up to $250,000 – a $100,000 increase on the previous maximum – with the Government contributing $2 for every $1 raised by the local volunteer group. The purpose for each grant will be determined by the applicants for purchasing equipment including generators, pumps, utility vehicles, tankers, and rescue trucks. Groups can also fund minor refurbishments or amenity upgrades to their station, club, or unit. Eligible services include the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES), Life Saving Victoria, and Volunteer Marine Search and Rescue units. The government has invested statewide over the past decade more than $138 million in VESEP grants. The 2025-26 grants close on Monday, 28 July 2025. For applications, visit emv.vic.gov.au/vesep

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