The Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) grants for 2023-24 are now open.

VESEP is an annual grants program that provides funding to Victorian emergency services volunteer groups to purchase essential operational equipment such as chainsaws, generators, pumps and rescue and safety equipment.

VESEP funding can also be used by volunteer organisations to purchase vehicles and appliances such as 4WD vehicles, light and medium tankers, rescue trucks and lighting trailers and can also fund minor facility improvements such as refurbishments and amenity upgrades.

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett is encouraging all volunteer units, brigades and groups to get their applications in.

This year almost $15 million in grants is available to volunteer organisations across Ripon and the state from the CFA, VICSES, Life Saving Victoria, Volunteer Marine Search and Rescue units and other volunteer emergency service groups.

Victorian volunteer emergency service groups can apply for a grant of up to $150,000 with the Government providing $2 for every $1 of funding contributed by the local volunteer group.

Previous recipients of the grant include the Dunolly, Kingston, Snake Valley and District and Rheola CFAs, as well as Ararat and Maryborough SES units.

The 2023-24 VESEP applications are now open and close Friday 16 June 2023. For more information about VESEP and to find out how to apply for a grant visit emv.vic.gov.au/vesep.

Quotes attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

“Funding goes towards projects and equipment that help our volunteer brigades, units and clubs respond to emergencies more efficiently and effectively, so they can continue keeping Victorians safe.”

“Our emergency service volunteers step up to protect our communities – it’s important they have the right equipment so they can do their job safely and efficiently.”