THE New South Wales Government has put forward law changes aimed at changing ownership and management of the state’s fleet of rural fire trucks.
In seeking to amend the Rural Fires Act 1997, the Government would spend $470 million in 10 years on taking control of the Rural Fire Service fleet from local councils by mid-next year.
An additional $29 million would be spent on setting up eight “regional maintenance hubs” within two years.
If approved, the law change would also see $106 million spent in four years on maintenance and safety upgrades.
Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib said the move to bring the RFS fleet under direct State Government control was in part about improved vehicle management and standards.
“This isn’t just an investment in trucks,” he said. “We’re building the maintenance network behind them while creating regional jobs and making sure our RFS fleet is reliable and ready to respond.
“We’re making sure our firefighters have the vehicles and facilities they need to do their job when communities count on them the most.
“By investing in our firefighting fleet, support vehicles and facilities, we’re strengthening community safety and the resilience of our emergency response well into the future.”
RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin welcomed the announcement.
“This is a landmark and momentous reform for the RFS and one of the most significant investments in our operational capability in recent years.
“Our firefighters rely on these vehicles every day in some of the most demanding and unpredictable conditions, and it is essential we equip them with a fleet that is safe, reliable and fit for purpose.
“This reform establishes, for the first time, a consistent and modern approach to fleet management across NSW.
“It strengthens safety, improves reliability and ensures our members are always ready to respond when communities need them.”
A statement from the State Government said local councils would be consulted regarding the changes.