Fire Services Reform
On May 19 the State Government announced a significant reform to the way fire services are delivered in Victoria.
A key component of the reform will be the establishment of new organisation called Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) to service metropolitan Melbourne and major regional centres. It is not yet known what will be defined as metropolitian and major regional, or how these areas will interact with the volunteer brigades that surround them.
FRV will bring together MFB and CFA career firefighters from our 35 integrated stations to service areas currently being covered by integrated stations. Volunteers brigades that are currently part of an integrated brigade are expected to be moved out into their own facilities. No timelines or the mechanism of how this will occur have been announced.
This means CFA career firefighters and some support staff will transition to FRV. CFA will provide comprehensive support to this group of staff. There will be no job losses or redundancies for career firefighters and staff. It is expected that any paid fire fighter support that the CFA requires, particularly fire ground leadership, will be seconded in from FRV.
The government has also announced a $100 million package, on top of money to rebrand, to support CFA. Details on how this will be allocated are not yet known.
The Andrews government has also committed to introducing new laws to give all firefighters equal access to compensation for cancers contracted in the line of duty. This means all firefighters will have greater certainty in being able to access compensation benefits for specified cancers. Details of eligibility are expected to be announced when the legislation is produced to parliament.
Read the full Fire Services Statement – pdf 3MB
What does this mean for Gisborne CFA volunteers?
We will continue to serve and protect our community just as we always have.
We will continue to operate under the leadership of CFA’s Chief Officer.
Volunteers will remain remain committed to stepping up in times of need.
Read CFA’s fact sheet on the reform – pdf 215k
Read the Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria page on the reform
Got a question?
If you have any questions you can contact our dedicated information line for CFA staff and volunteers by calling 1300 339 558.
If you are a member of the public with questions, we encourage you to contact your local member of state parliament for answers.
Alternatively, questions or comments can be submitted via email to fireservicesreform@cfa.vic.gov.au.
You can visit the Fire Services Victoria website for more information including FAQ’s or submit comments on the website.
Member support
CFA has a range of support services and resources available including:
Peer Support Program – trained members offering support & guidance – contact your local Peer Coordinator (requires login, CFA Members only)
Member Assistance Program – a 24-hour confidential and external counselling service – 1300 795 711
Chaplaincy – 1800 337 068
Manager Assist – confidential coaching, support and advice for managers – 1300 795 711
These services are confidential, free of charge and available to all CFA members and their immediate families.