Community
1 May, 2026
Volunteers question budget allocation
MEMBERS of the CFA Volunteers Group (CFAVG) have raised questions about the transparency and timing of fire services funding allocations in the “leaked” 2026/27 Victorian Budget.
While the group said the investment in trucks, infrastructure and capability was overdue and welcome, it said the announcement raised “serious questions” about not only transparency and timing, but who was ultimately paying.
“CFA volunteers have been warning for years about ageing equipment, resourcing gaps and increasing pressure so it is fair to ask why it has taken this long to act, and why now,” CFA Volunteers Group secretary/treasurer Leigh Harry said.
“Of the reported $365 million package, only around $149 million is directed toward the CFA and that is spread over 10 years.
“When you break that down, it becomes clear this will do little to address the real and immediate challenges facing CFA brigades.”
CFAVG raised serious concerns about the structure and timing of the funding.
“Funding stretched over a decade does not fix today’s problems. It does not remove volunteers from unsafe single cab tankers, and it does not resolve the well-known resourcing gaps on the ground.”
The organisation is demanding full transparency on the funding breakdown, including how much is genuinely new government investment versus revenue raised through the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF).
“Victorians are being asked to pay more through the ESVF and that is now being presented as government investment. That is not transparency.”
The CFAVG has strongly reiterated its call for the repeal of the ESVF levy, describing it as an unfair and unsustainable burden on households already under financial pressure.
“At a time when families are struggling with rising fuel costs, energy bills and everyday expenses, they are now being asked to pay more to fund essential emergency services while also relying on volunteers to deliver those services,” Mr Harry said.
The group said the current model places an unacceptable strain on both volunteers and the broader community.
“Let’s be clear, volunteers are giving their time for free, communities are paying more, and the system is expecting both to carry a growing load. That is not sustainable, and it is not fair.”
The CFAVG also highlighted that the challenges were not limited to CFA, with Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) firefighters also facing ongoing resourcing and appliance upgrade needs that require proper recognition and investment.
“This is not just a CFA issue. FRV firefighters are also dealing with resourcing pressures and the need for modern appliances and support. A whole-of-sector approach is essential.”
The CFAVG warned against the politicisation of emergency services funding.
“Funding fire services should never depend on political timing, budget cycles or pressure. It is a core responsibility of government and must be delivered consistently, transparently and fairly.”
While acknowledging that the announcement reflects years of advocacy, CFAVG stressed that promises were not enough.
“This funding is a response to sustained pressure from volunteers and communities but a budget is a promise, and what matters is what is actually delivered.”
The CFAVG said the real test would be whether frontline services, both volunteer and career, see tangible improvements.
“Firefighters, whether volunteer or career, don’t need announcements they need support, resources and a system that values their contribution.”
CFAVG members said they would continue to hold the government accountable for delivering real outcomes and ensuring funding reaches the frontline.
“Victorians are paying more and they deserve to see the benefit in their local brigade.”
