Tuesday, 28 May 2024

 Bridget VALLENCE (Evelyn) (14:40): (654) The Lilydale SES volunteers do tremendous work helping not only the Yarra Ranges communities but communities right across Victoria during storms, floods and other major emergencies. We all owe Victoria State Emergency Service volunteers a debt of gratitude for the work they do helping keep communities safe. However, it is disappointing that yet again this vital emergency service did not receive the funding it desperately needs under the state budget. My question to the Minister for Emergency Services is: specifically, how much new funding was allocated in the 2024–2025 budget to VICSES for capital and for unit operating expenses, including for the Lilydale SES unit? Currently volunteers have to spend time rattling tins to pay for equipment, for fuel to attend call-outs and for new vehicles, which is unsustainable. I am calling on the Allan government to provide more much-needed funding for the VICSES. And to Shaun Caulfield, Louise Andrews and all of the volunteers at the Lilydale SES: thank you for the work that you do for our community.