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Volunteer Emergency Services Grants Available The Coalition State Government will provide $11 million for volunteer groups to purchase new emergency equipment said Nationals Member for Morwell Russell Northe. By Russell Northe - 23rd February 2011 - Back to News Under the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP), grants of up to $100,000 would be made available to enhance the capability of local volunteers responding to emergencies. Mr Northe said the new program, which replaces the previous Community Safety Emergency Support Program, would help a broad range of regional volunteers continue to provide vital emergency support to Victorians. "Volunteers, such as our dedicated fire fighters, are the backbone of emergency services, so the Coalition wants to ensure they have the best equipment available," Mr Northe said. The VESEP will contribute $2 for every $1 of funding up to $100,000. Mr Northe said the $11 million in grants could fund emergency equipment including trucks, tankers, boats and trailers, as well as fund building upgrades and refurbishments. "The VESEP program will help ensure volunteers are better equipped to respond quickly and effectively to emergency events, whether they are bushfires, floods or heatwaves," Mr Northe said. "Victoria’s volunteers consistently display dedication and an unwavering commitment during periods of emergency." To be eligible for a VESEP grant, an emergency services volunteer group must, within two years prior to an application being made: - have performed a role or discharged a responsibility of an agency, as defined by the Emergency Management Act 1986; or
- be able to demonstrate a history of emergency services in Victoria. Emergency services groups must also obtain independent expert confirmation that they meet this definition.
Further information can be found by accessing http://www.justice.vic.gov.au, and following the links, or the Emergency Services Policy and Support (ESP&S) can be contacted on (03) 8685 1365
Media: Russell Northe 0408 22 55 23 / Julia Auciello 5133 9088
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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