Grant program to boost CFA volunteers

Member for Eastern Victoria Melina Bath is encouraging CFA brigades from across Gippsland to apply for grant funding to assist in attracting and retaining volunteers.

The Enhancing Volunteerism Grants Program is providing grants of up to $250,000 from a pool of $10 million.

Ms Bath was speaking after attending the Eastern Districts Fire Brigade Competition held at Morwell over the Australia Day long weekend.

“I was delighted to attend the CFA competition last weekend and meet with so many wonderful volunteers,” Ms Bath said.

“In recent times I have listened to many comments about how difficult it has been for brigades to attract new recruits.”

“The CFA is such an important part of our rural communities. People think the CFA will always be there when we need them, but the reality is that it’s the people – the volunteers – who give organisations like this their strength.”

“I hope this grant program can assist CFA brigades across Gippsland to recruit new volunteers and increase the skills of existing volunteers.”

The grant scheme covers a wide range of areas, including equipment and facility upgrades and projects that will improve culture, diversity and fairness.

Applications for the current round of grants close on Wednesday 28 February 2018.

 

CFA brigades can find further information on the grant scheme here:

https://cfa.smartygrants.com.au/EVGP1