Wednesday, 15 October 2025

 Sonja TERPSTRA (North-Eastern Metropolitan) (17:51): I rise to speak on the Fire Rescue Victoria annual report for the 2023–24 financial year and to commend the remarkable work being done by FRV to keep our community safe and protect life and property right across Victoria. This is vital work, and it is strongly supported by the Allan Labor government. We know that modern firefighting requires modern equipment, and that is why we have committed to a $40 million rolling fleet replacement program and invested $13.7 million for five new aerial pumper platform appliances, ensuring that FRV has access to the latest technology when it matters the most. This is about giving our firefighters the tools they need to do their job safely and effectively.

Our firefighters are the best of us. They put themselves in harm’s way to protect others, and their efforts last year were critical in preventing what could have been a disastrous summer. Sadly, we still saw significant fires across Gippsland, the Grampians and Ballarat during the 2023–24 season. FRV played a crucial role in fighting those fires through strike teams and incident management capabilities, working alongside CFA volunteers to keep Victorians safe. Over 162 FRV firefighters were deployed as part of strike teams embedded within the CFA structures to ensure seamless support and avoid disruption. That is collaboration at its best.

But FRV is more than just an emergency service. As a part of the Victorian State Emergency Management Plan, they play a key role in multi-agency responses even when it is for not a fire. They are leading innovation too. Our first all-electric fire truck, EVIE, is already on the road, combining independent drive and pump systems with zero carbon emissions. How good is that. It is a great example of how Victoria’s renewable energy revolution touches every part of our lives, even our emergency services.

The report also reminds us of something we cannot ignore: climate change is here, and it is driving longer, more intense fire seasons. That means we all need to be fire ready, whether we are in Wonga Park, Warrandyte or anywhere across the state. FRV’s mission is to create safer, more resilient communities, and that is something we can all contribute to by getting fire ready earlier. So what does this look like?

First of all, smoke alarms – they are your first line of defence. Install them in every bedroom and living area. Many newer models include carbon monoxide detection as well. I want to thank FRV and the CFA for their smoke alarm campaign. It certainly is saving lives. There are other simple steps too that people can take. When you are cooking, do not leave food unattended and keep flammable items away from stovetops – although hopefully you are already using an induction cooker thanks to the Victorian energy upgrades program. Make sure you have a fire escape plan and you are fire ready – for example, two exits in every room and a safe meeting point outside. Practise your plan, and remember ‘Get down low and go, go, go’.

FRV has been busy delivering community safety programs, and I know one of my favourite parts of it is the primary schools seeing fire trucks and meeting firefighters. These programs have only grown. Through fire education, FRV delivered 718 risk-reduction sessions last year, teaching kids and families how to stay safe. They have also run countless community talks and prevention programs, building resilience from the ground up. To FRV, the CFA and all our emergency services, thank you. Your work saves lives, and this government will always back you in. That is what makes our community strong, and that is why I am proud to stand here and speak in support of the incredible work that our fire services do.

The PRESIDENT: Before I call the next item, people in the gallery, I understand that you are interested in next item. We are always very pleased when there are people that come and look at the workings of the Parliament. But just to remind you, there is no audience participation. We appreciate your cooperation. If you hear something that you like, please do not applaud. If you hear something you do not like, no booing or anything like that. Thank you for your cooperation.