About 
HomePage Featured (447)
Position Vacant - VFBV Support Officer (West)
Written by Adam Barnett
VFBV is seeking to appoint a VFBV Support Officer to work in regional Victoria with VFBV District Councils, Brigades and volunteers to facilitate consultation, issues resolution and volunteer engagement. This position is a State role, with emphasis and focus on providing support throughout CFA’s West Region (Districts 15, 16 and 17). This is an existing position, with the incumbent vacating the role.
In addition to relevant skills, candidates will need to understand CFA and volunteerism, be good listeners and be able to navigate through complex issues resolution, be self-starters and have a passion to improve arrangements that benefit the welfare and efficiency of CFA volunteers.
Extensive regional Victorian work travel is envisaged and flexible work base locations will be considered for the position, with the priority focus to assign a support officer in the CFA West Region covering Districts (15,16,17). Applicants living outside the west, but within a reasonable distance (neighbouring districts) will also be considered.
Flexible working arrangements, to cater for extensive evening and weekend work, will be tailored to match the needs of our volunteer membership base.
This is a full time position giving the right candidate an opportunity to really put his/her stamp on the VFBV of the future.
All applications must include both a current resume and a cover letter addressing the key selection criteria outlined in the attached position description.
Send applications to the CEO, VFBV, PO Box 453, Mt. Waverley, Vic. 3149 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Applications close Monday 4th September, 2017.
For further information contact Cathie Smith on 03 9886 1141
VFBV Submission to the Fire Services Bill Select Committee
Written by Adam Barnett
On Friday 7th July 2017, VFBV appeared before a public hearing of the Victorian Legislative Council Fire Services Bill Select Committee to table the VFBV submission and answer questions from the Committee members. Appearing on behalf of VFBV was;
- State President, Nev Jones AFSM
- Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Ford
- Executive Officer, Adam Barnett
A full transcript of this hearing will be made available as soon as it is available and publicly released on Hansard.
You can download the full VFBV submission from here.
Below is a copy of the submissions cover letter, and summary.
7 July 2017
Assistant Clerk Committees
Department of the Legislative Council
Fire Services Bill Select Committee
Parliament House, Spring Street
EAST MELBOURNE VIC 3002
Dear Committee,
This letter and the attached detail is the VFBV submission to the Select Committee established to examine the Fire Services Bill.
VFBV wishes to thank the Select Committee for the opportunity to provide comment regarding the proposed Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation and Fire Services Legislation Amendment (Reform) Bill 2017 (referred to in VFBV submission as ‘proposed legislation’).
The following submission is provided in good faith and in response to the Select Committee’s invitation for comment on the proposed legislation. The timeframes for submission on this important matter have been extremely tight, and I am hopeful that the committee will accept supplementary information if required.
In making this submission we have reflected on the many previous reviews of recent years and the recurring concerns of volunteers that they are being heard but not listened to. In the lead up to this proposed legislation those concerns were amplified because there was not even an opportunity to be heard. There was no consultation prior to the tabling of the proposed legislation in Parliament despite Government’s claims to the contrary.
Now, less than 4 weeks on, volunteers still feel that despite a series of field briefings to tell them what the proposed legislation is - there has still not been real or genuine effort nor process to take on board what they have said, listen to nor consider their concerns and treat them with the respect they deserve.
Just because volunteers are not paid, and just because their good will is likely to see them continuing to help people in need these are by no means reasons to disrespect, disempower or denigrate their views and input.
I am very sad to say that many volunteers do think that their views have been too readily dismissed and ignored. There are also many who feel the effect of unfair reactive castigation and sometimes vilification just for having their say. This behaviour is not reasonable and should stop, and the way to stop it is by example - led from the top.
We are hopeful that the tensions associated with this review can become a lesson to everyone about how not to do things.
Apart from the consideration of the proposals covered in the proposed legislation, it would be good if we can put this bad process to some good use and use it as a catalyst to rethink behaviours and lead, by personal example, a better way of behaving in the future.
VFBV and individuals within VFBV have felt the effect of MPs, abusing the privilege of parliament to spread known mistruths about us, about what we have said and what we stand for. This is totally inappropriate and is not the way to treat anyone. I ask the committee to contemplate an important question – if people can be so brazen as to defame someone in the public eye and under the protection of parliament, what threat and retribution is happening behind the scenes to people, at the ground level and even those expert officials who need to be able to speak independently, who dare to speak in any way that contradicts the directions driven from the secret places that developed this legislation.
We are not alone in this and, sadly, have observed other key players in the sector being treated with similar disdain simply for having the integrity to speak up.
The issue of fair process and mischief is not covered in the attached submission as it falls outside the terms of reference, but it does warrant serious independent investigation and I state this formally in the hope that this can happen before this legislation is decided on.
It is important to note that the Government’s commitment to provide additional funding and support to CFA is not enshrined nor delivered through the proposed legislation and does not need to be. These welcome initiatives can therefore be delivered regardless of the outcome of the propose legislation. VFBV welcomes and appreciates these initiatives however we do not believe these critically deserved offers of core support and funding should somehow be tied to the dismantling of CFA and the proposed legislation that has real potential to destroy the very thing the funding is designed to support.
The need for increased funding of CFA’s core capital works, fleet replacement, firefighting equipment, volunteer support and training has been extensively covered by previous VFBV submissions and has been well and truly established by previous reviews as recently as the Department of Treasury base funding review conduced only a few years ago.
VFBV looks forward to assisting the Select Committee in any way required.
Yours Sincerely
Andrew Ford
Chief Executive Officer
SUMMARY
VFBV wishes to thank the Select Committee for the opportunity to provide comment regarding the proposed Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation and Fire Services Legislation Amendment (Reform) Bill 2017 (referred to in VFBV submission as ‘proposed legislation’).
The first comment to be made is that VFBV is very disappointed that the proposed legislation combines the two totally separate issues of firefighter cancer presumptive rights compensation and the proposed restructuring of Victoria’s fire services. VFBV feels strongly that it is morally wrong and offensive to combine an issue so important as firefighter cancer protection with the proposed fire services restructure.
VFBV submits that the proposed Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation aspects of the proposed legislation should be separated into a different Bill and be subject to separate consultation.
Nevertheless, while the proposed legislation ties the firefighter’s presumptive rights aspects to the proposed restructure of Victoria’s fire service, consideration of the proposed restructuring of Victoria’s fire services also demands comment on the Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation aspects of the proposed legislation.
Presumptive rights compensation
In respect to Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation aspects of the legislation, VFBV is very strongly of the view that there should be equality in the treatment of volunteer and career firefighters. The proposed Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation legislation does not treat volunteers and paid staff equally. It sets up a complex, and ambiguous legal battle for volunteers and a much simpler process for paid firefighters. The proposed Victorian presumptive rights legislation is not the same as the QLD model. To sell the proposed Victorian presumptive rights legislation as being the same as the simple and equitable model now in place in QLD is misleading. Legal advice obtained by VFBV from QC Jack Rush[1] confirms VFBV concerns and observation provided to VFBV by lawyers[2] directly experienced in the operation and intent of the QLD model also points to a fundamental difference and less desirable proposal being put forward for Victorian volunteers.
Proposed restructure - flawed motivation
In regard to the proposed restructure of Victoria’s fire services aspects of the proposed legislation, the pre-eminent consideration in determining a structure for fire and emergency public safety should be to have a sustainable, efficient and cost effective system for planning, prevention, response to and recovery from fire and other emergencies. VFBV submits that the policy rationale driving the proposed restructure of Victoria’s fire services has not been driven by this consideration.
Instead the change has been motivated by a Government and United Fire Fighters union agenda to find a way for a problematic and overreaching operational staff EBA to avoid recently amended provisions in the Fair Work Act[1] (referred to in VFBV submission as the ‘FWA volunteer support amendment’), amendments that simply seek to recognise and respect the role and contribution of CFA volunteers.
Not only is this motivation flawed, the claim of an impossible barrier to finalising future EBA’s is simply not true. This claim that the FWA volunteer support amendment now means that any CFA EBA containing matters relating to training, equipment, rostering cannot be finalised is an untested and unsubstantiated claim and in VFBV’s view it misleading and patently wrong.
The FWA volunteer support amendment does nothing more than prevent EBA’s from restricting or limiting how an organisation such as CFA supports, equips, recognises, respects and consults with volunteers in the same way as the Fair Work Act has prevented enterprise bargaining clauses which breached the Victorian Equal Opportunity Act since the Fair Work Act was introduced by the Gillard Government. This Commonwealth FWA volunteer support amendment does no more than prevent an Enterprise Agreement between the CFA and UFU from breaching the current requirements regarding CFA volunteers as contained in and arising from the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 as it has existed since May 2011.
Proposed restructure – doesn’t fix FWA/ EBA problem
To say the restructure of the fire services is needed because of the problems created by the FWA volunteer support amendment is wrong. To allow this to be the motivation for carving up the fire services is wrong. To say it will fix the problem is wrong.
Carving up the fire services to avoid the FWA volunteer support amendment test does nothing to fix the problem.
The proposed restructure creates even more problems and the underlying issues of EBA overreach are still embedded, and perhaps made worse by the proposed legislations requirement for all CFA operational personnel to be employed by FRV, under an EBA to be negotiated by FRV without CFA involvement.
Proposed restructure – fundamental concerns
VFBV is concerned with the proposed restructure at a fundamental.
Any modernisation of the fire and emergency services must be based on consideration of how best to systematically meet local needs plus how best to function as an intrinsically connected regional and state-wide whole, ensuring flexibility and resources are available for local demands and also for severe, multiple/concurrent, and long duration events (whilst simultaneously protecting their local communities).
Experience and reviews have shown us again and again that the best approach to public safety is to embed public safety ethos and practice in local communities. The CFA community based model, where emergency service volunteers and paid staff work in a fully integrated manner and where volunteers
are empowered, responsible and valued based on their training and experience (regardless of pay status), for both local service delivery and major incident management roles is a best practice model regarded world-wide.
The medium and long term effect of the proposed changes on Victoria’s volunteer peak load and surge capacity is of deep concern for VFBV and others engaged in public safety.
The fire service structure set down in the proposed legislation is rigid, costly and undermines the whole concept of building local community embedded volunteer capacity and capability by relegating volunteers to second rate responders (if required at all) and also by removing the statutory responsibility of paid firefighters and FRV employees to encourage, maintain and strengthen local volunteer capacity.
VFBV submits that it is totally inappropriate to enshrine a changed fire service restructure that will have direct cost increase impacts without the proposal being adequately costed and properly funded not just for the next two years, but with assurances moving forward.
Consideration should also be given to the fact that simply costing the proposal properly and building an assured funding mechanism will do nothing to alleviate the even broader concern that the proposed legislation and flow on implications are likely to cause increases to the fire services levy, complications to the fire service levy governance and an impact on every person in Victoria who pays the fire service levy.
Proposed structure – adds no additional benefit to fix service gaps
We note that there have been attacks on the CFA meeting fire standards in some areas and that this has also been used as a basis for justifying the proposed changes. Without commenting on the statistics used in those attacks (which are made on CFA volunteers and paid staff alike), it is important to note that the current CFA system can and does flexibly respond to any real service capacity gaps and already has all of the legislated powers necessary to employ additional paid firefighters to supplement and support the volunteer base where required The proposed legislation provides no change whatsoever to the fire services ability to respond to urban growth or urban service demands.
Any limits on CFA’s ability to respond and quickly to gaps in service capacity can be directly traced to outdated or otherwise limiting industrial clauses and practices arising from industrial agreements over the past 20 years. It is the statutory duty of the CFA management to maintain effective functional service standards and they are accountable for that duty.
Negotiating industrial agreements in harmony with their statutory responsibilities is part of CFA management’s responsibility and should not be subject to political interference. The proposed legislation does nothing to fix these problems, and worse, it establishes in legislation a future framework that reduces the options and flexibility that currently exist.
The opportunity that exists today for CFA pursue a range of options to transition and evolve volunteer brigade capacity (including supplementing paid firefighters into the volunteer brigade) as local service demands changes will be reduced not strengthened by the proposed restructure.
The proposed structure and resulting systems established by the proposed legislation lack the flexibility of the CFA system and alienates local volunteerism in urban communities; it sets a framework that will disempower and discourage volunteers and this will lead to a need to replace volunteers over time with paid staff doing the same response job as volunteers but without the community networks or ongoing provision sufficient surge capacity.
Proposed legislation – should be rejected and rethought
VFBV submits that the proposed restructure of Victoria fire services as established by the proposed legislation is inferior to the CFA’s current system and must be rejected.
The proposed legislation provides no additional service capacity or service interoperability than exists today, in fact it further fragment the services.
The proposed legislation will act to diminish and discourage volunteer capacity.
The proposed legislation is inconsistent and in conflict with key recommendations of recent major reviews, including the findings of the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission.
The proposed legislation is motivated by the wrong reason of seeking to find a clear path to push ahead with EBA demands of the UFU. It works against sustaining volunteer capacity.
The proposed legislation does not provide a solution to the current real problem of industrial dispute and it does not provide a solution to the challenges/problems/opportunities facing the fire and emergency sector.
In summary VFBV submits:
- The Fire Service Reform aspects of the proposed legislation should not be supported. The Bill should be withdrawn and its underlying assumptions rethought for the provision of agile, responsive and effective community embedded public safety across Victoria. Any structure proposed for adoption must maintain and strengthen the primary role of community embedded volunteers fully integrated with and, supplemented and supported by paid staff on a genuine needs basis. Future models should be developed in a fully transparent and collaborative way with the full involvement of all stakeholders and personnel/volunteers on the ground.
- The proposed legislation should be split to separate the consideration of Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation from Fire Services Reform aspects and be subject to separate consultation.
- The Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation aspects of the proposed legislation needs to be amended to remove the differential treatment of paid staff and volunteers.
A way forward
VFBV respectfully request that the Select Committee seek:
- Transparent and evidence backed understanding of the problems trying to be fixed;
- Independent and robust impact analysis (including cost/benefit impact) of any reform proposals before a decision is made;
- Critically examination and evidence to test how the key changes being proposed will provide a better solution than the arrangements which exist today;
VFBV believe it is critically important that there is established a proper and transparent process of community, agency and volunteer engagement and consultation before the reform policy is decided and before future legislation is considered and developed.
VFBV suggest, as an immediate next step and before any legislation is decided, an independently chaired, all stakeholder fire service improvement task force be established to - commence and actively facilitate organisational culture and positive relationships shift; engagement of key stakeholders; support active leadership to rebuild a shared focus and commitment to common operating principles and goals; facilitate an independent review of fire service best practice models; identify priority areas for improvement in Victoria; to ensure independent and transparent assessment of options and feasibility/costs/benefits impacts; and develop a Fire Services Reform program owned by the people on the ground.
The establishment of this taskforce will provide an immediate opportunity for trust and respect to be rebuilt between Government and all stakeholders and agencies, and create a framework for a shared vision and journey for future fire services reform.
FWA/EBA concerns – let FWC process resolve it
At a minimum VFBV believes it is incumbent on the Select Committee to test the proposition about problems caused by the FWA volunteer support amendment thoroughly.
VFBV submits that to end the tension, claim and counter claim – submit the proposed 2016 CFA Operational Staff EBA to the Fair Work Commission and allow the fair umpire[1] and subsequent transparent process to resolve any concerns.
Volunteers do not wish to stop EBA’s from being finalised and the Government and United Firefighters Union have openly stated that the proposed 2016 CFA Operational Staff EBA does not, should not and is not intended to be able to restrict or limit how CFA supports, equips, recognises, respects or consults with volunteers. Given this foundation, a sensible way forward would be to submit the EBA, confirm if there are any unintended problems and remove these problems. The tensions that have played out over the past year will be resolved and at a minimum there will be objective, transparent and fair deliberation.
Fire Service Restructure Update and VFBV Legal Advice
Written by Adam Barnett
NOTE TO MEMBERS – 15 June 2017
FIRE SERVICES REFORM LEGISLATION UPDATE AND VFBV LEGAL ADVICE
Attached to this News Note, is a copy of the legal advice provided to VFBV regarding the Presumptive Rights Compensation aspects of the proposed Firefighter's Presumptive Rights Compensation and Fire Services Legislation Amendment Bill 2017 (referred to here as ‘the Bill’).
This legal advice, provided by Jack Rush QC, a former Supreme Court Judge, former Chairman of the Victorian Bar Council, and Counsel Assisting the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission confirms that the proposed presumptive rights legislation:
“…establishes two distinct mechanisms for the operation of the presumption that specified cancers are due to the nature of firefighting – one for career firefighters and one for volunteer firefighters. The Bill discriminates against volunteer firefighters, is inequitable to them, has been drafted in a manner that is prejudicial to volunteer firefighters’ entitlements and rights to claim for specified forms of cancer when compared to the claims process created by the Bill for career firefighters for precisely the same cancer conditions.”
This directly contradicts the Governments statements:
- Career Firefighters and Volunteers will get equal treatment – They do not
- That it is the same or better than the QLD model – It is not
- That the proposed legislation is what VFBV asked for – It is not
Bill scheduled to go to Upper House for vote next Tuesday (20th June 2017)
The Bill has been passed in the Legislative Assembly (lower House) and is supposedly scheduled to be put to the vote in the Legislative Council (Upper House) next week, probably Tuesday 20th June 2017. This is very disappointing for volunteers who have raised serious concerns about the lack of consultation regarding the Bill; the negative effect dismantling the existing CFA integrated service model; the potential erosion of Victoria’s vital volunteer surge capacity; the lack of transparent process, operational or cost impact analysis; and the ambiguity, confusion and interference that will flow if this change is adopted.
Volunteers are supportive of genuine and cost effective fire service modernisation but we continue to urge the decision makers to withdraw or stop the adoption of the current Andrews’ government proposal. The approach to modernisation needs to be re-thought. Our strong view is that those aspects of the Bill relating to the split up of the integrated CFA model and the creation of FRV are so fundamentally flawed they should be rejected and at a minimum require a major rethink and review before being considered by the Legislative Council.
We are continuing to have asked MPs to take this legislation off the table for now or at least agree to a transparent and proper process of scrutiny and review before the legislation is passed.
Previous VFBV communiques have outlined VFBV broad concerns regarding the Bill and these concerns remain.
Bill should be split to separate presumptive rights compensation from the aspects relating to structural changes to Victoria’s Fire Services
As stated above, VFBV concerns regarding the broader reform aspects of the Bill remain and are in addition to the Presumptive Rights Compensation aspects of the Bill. VFBV and many other respected public officials and bodies have already expressed our deep disappointment that the Bill combines two totally separate issues. One being firefighters’ presumptive rights compensation and the other being proposed changes to the fire service structure and arrangements for Victoria. It is highly offensive and morally wrong to combine an issue so important as firefighter cancer protection with the proposed reforms to the fire services that essentially carve up CFA, one as a ransom note for the other.
VFBV has met with MPs from all sides of politics seeking support to separate those aspects of the Bill which relate to presumptive rights from the remaining aspects relating to the broader restructure of the fire services.
At this point in time our efforts have been unsuccessful however we remain hopeful that this issue will be respectfully resolved by a resolution to split the Bill when the legislation is considered in the Upper House.
It is untrue and blatantly misleading to say the Firefighters Presumptive Rights Compensation aspects of the proposed Bill is the same as the QLD presumptive legislation
Regarding the presumptive rights compensation aspects of the Bill I refer you to the attached legal advice provided to VFBV. This advice from Jack Rush QC confirms VFBV concerns that the proposed firefighter presumptive rights legislation is being sold as something that it clearly is not. The proposed Victorian legislation does not provide a simple process for volunteers, it does not treat volunteers and paid firefighters equally, it is not the same as the well regarded QLD model and it sets up potential for ambiguous protracted legal debate and bureaucratic hurdles for sick volunteers.
To sell the cancer protection as being the same as other simple and equitable models such as the QLD approach is false. The proposed Victorian cancer protection legislation is not the QLD model, it sets up a complex and ambiguous legal battle for volunteers and a much simpler process for paid firefighters. VFBV is pleased that paid firefighters will be provided with simple and compassionate cancer protection but why discriminate against volunteers?
All volunteers are urged to read the attached legal advice as it sets out a compelling case for there to be further work done on the presumptive rights protection aspects of the Bill before it is adopted.
VFBV believes this work could be done quite quickly if the true spirit of the QLD model is genuinely applied for both paid and volunteer firefighters in Victoria.
Serious concerns regarding the proposed fires services reform echoed by counsel assisting the 2009 Bushfires Royal Commission
All members are encouraged to read the attached opinion of Jack Rush QC regarding the adverse effects of the proposed Bill on CFA volunteer capacity, Victoria’s capacity to deal with major fires, CFA operations and support for volunteer.
VFBV have argued strongly that the proposed fire service reform change triggered by the legislation is not a modernisation of the fire services.
It creates less flexibility for the fire services to adapt to changing risk and service demands. The Government, the Emergency Management Commissioner, and the CFA Chief Officer are yet to be able to explain to the Victorian public what public safety improvement will occur in communities currently serviced by CFA’s 35 Integrated Brigades. They are yet to explain how changing the logo on a truck that sits in Dandenong, Geelong or Bendigo today, somehow makes that community better protected tomorrow.
It further fragments Victoria’s fire services when all recent reviews have said fire service modernisation needs to be about joining up effort.
It creates 35 separated fire service islands spread throughout regional Victoria creating confusion, duplication and complex chains of command.
Contrary to the Governments claim, none of the recent major reviews, and certainly not the 2009 fires Royal Commission, recommended splitting the world-renowned CFA model. This is confirmed and the propaganda being pedalled by the Government has now been called out by Jack Rush QC as ‘nonsense’. Jack Rush has confirmed that the 2009 Bushfires Royal Commission applauded the CFA model as being ‘the nations pre-eminent firefighting organisation.
Jack Rush has confirmed that the 2009 Bushfires Royal Commission recognised the importance of maintaining and strengthening the existing CFA model that fully integrates volunteers and paid firefighters. The 2009 Bushfires Royal Commission and other recent reviews recognised the absolute importance of the existing CFA model as the best way for Victoria.
The Government is marketing these reforms as restoring CFA to a strong and independent volunteer service. They omit the fact that all those operational positions covered by the UFU that support, lead and manage those same volunteers will now cleverly be forced to be contracted back in from the metro service - supposedly doing the same jobs they were doing before – but employed and grown by another service.
A clear motivation underpinning the proposed change is a blatant desire by those pushing it to avoid a simple test that now sits with the legislated Fair Work Commission umpire – the very same umpire that Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews said we should all listen to up until the day the umpire’s rules also require volunteers rights, capacity and contribution to be respected valued and recognised. The so called Fair Work barriers to any industrial agreement are only about ensuring industrial agreements don’t restrict or limit how a body such as CFA supports, equips, deploys or respect volunteers. These tests are not only common sense; they essentially already exist in CFA legislation.
What is VFBV’s vision for the future?
Based on volunteer feedback and consultation from the 2015 Fire Services review, and as submitted to last year’s Senate enquires, our view has been stated as the following:
Because volunteers are fundamental to Victoria’s emergency management capability, fundamental to community resilience and at the core of communities sharing responsibility for their own safety, it is vitally important to ensure that they are involved in decision making on all issues that affect them, both to make the most of their frontline knowledge and to help sustain Victoria’s essential volunteer resource.
VFBV wants to make it very clear that CFA volunteers appreciate and respect the dedication, skill and work of our CFA paid colleagues. Our vision for CFA is for it to be a modern and contemporary emergency service where volunteers and paid staff work side by side, as equals and respect one another.
We are against anything that tries to create a wedge between volunteers & paid staff, and any arrangements that seek to demoralise, discriminate or segregate volunteers from our paid colleagues.
We are all CFA members who want to put our communities first.
Our desire is for a modern approach, focussed on all people working together to maintain and build volunteer and community safety; a respectful culture focussed on empowering and supporting
local volunteer brigades and community with the flexibility and agility to enable CFA to tailor resources and support to local community’s needs.
The Governments proposed legislation is not modern, it is not flexible, it does not further community safety outcomes, and it does not promote interoperability or connectedness, and it does not build and strengthen community resilience before, during and after natural and other disasters.
The Bill should not proceed
Volunteers are supportive of fire service modernisation but we continue to urge the decision makers to stop and have a re-think.
Our strong view is that those aspects of the Bill relating to the split up of the integrated CFA model and the creation of FRV are so fundamentally flawed they should be rejected and at a minimum require a major rethink and review before being considered by the Legislative Council. Jack Rush has thankfully called the Bill for what it is ‘motivated by a political and ideological outcome’, ‘it will most certainly not produce a positive operational outcome, it weakens rather than strengthens the CFA and support for CFA volunteers’
What you need to do
Volunteers should not give up. Please continue to write, email or visit your local MPs, particularly Upper House MPs, and ask them to vote against the legislation. At a minimum ask them, if they are not prepared to take this legislation off the table for now, at least agree to a transparent and proper process of scrutiny and review before the legislation is passed.
* * *
2017 Queen’s Birthday Honours
VFBV warmly congratulates all recipients of Honours and Awards awarded during the Queens Birthday honours, including three CFA volunteers, and CFA's Chief Officer on the honour bestowed upon them with the award of the Australian Fire Service Medal, as well deserved recognition of their outstanding contribution to our fire service and the people of Victoria:
Allan Cracknell AFSM, Bairnsdale
A CFA Volunteer since 1973 with Nullawil, Maffra, Rupanyup and currently Bairnsdale Brigade, with roles undertaken including Bairnsdale Secretary since 1993 and Group Secretary for 10 years.
Allan’s award acknowledges his long involvement in fire safety prevention including highly engaging fire safety sessions at numerous community organisations and schools, and running a Juvenile Fire Awareness & Intervention Program in the Bairnsdale area. The award also acknowledges his dedication to member welfare through the Peer Support Program, and as Peer Support Co-ordinator for Districts 10 and 11 since 1997.
In addition to his volunteer service, Allan has been employed in later years by CFA as a Casual Community Fire Guard presenter and as a BASO supporting Brigades in far regional eastern Victoria.
Warren Currry AFSM, Port Albert
Warren has provided 44 years service to CFA at Yarram and currently Port Albert Brigade with approximately 39 of those years in a Brigade or Group Management Team role, including Lieutenant, Secretary, Captain, Deputy Group Officer and Group Officer.
Warren’s outstanding leadership has assisted with the development of others particularly younger members, has played an active role in reforming and improving Group operating procedures and in training and assessment roles and motivating others to enhance the quality of service delivery within the greater Yarram area.
Warren’s award acknowledges his outstanding leadership and significant role during the 2009 fires; the very capable team he developed with a broad skill base that successfully operates the Tarra Group Local Command Facility; and being instrumental in establishing the Port Albert Junior Brigade.
Lance King AFSM, Yallourn North
A CFA volunteer of Yallourn North Brigade since 1977, with numerous roles undertaken including Brigade Lieutenant, Secretary, Captain, Coach and member of Brigade competition team, Municipal Fire Prevention Delegate, Group Officer and VFBV District Council 27 President.
Lance’s award acknowledges his outstanding operational expertise and abilities; and his leadership and innovative solutions to issues and needs within the municipal emergency management sector where he has been able to leverage his CFA knowledge and experience to the benefit of the greater community, particularly through his Emergency Co-ordinator role at Latrobe City.
His calm and methodical approach to dealing with challenges and generating solutions has benefitted his Brigade, the CFA and the community through projects that produced significant improvements to community safety, public warning systems and information management by municipalities during emergency events and the subsequent recovery periods.
Chief Officer Steven Warrington AFSM
VFBV also congratulates Chief Officer Steve Warrington AFSM on the honour bestowed with the award of the Australian Fire Service Medal, as well deserved recognition of his outstanding contribution to our fire service and the people of Victoria.
Steve was a CFA volunteer for 14 years commencing with Chelsea Brigade in 1978. He later joined CFA staff in 1983 initially at Langwarrin Brigade, then moved through a range of roles including Operations Manager in District 8, Community Safety, Deputy Chief Officer in 2008, and his appointment as Chief Officer in 2016.
Also included in the 2017 Queen’s Birthday honours were Peter Driscoll AFSM, Barwon Downs (DELWP) & David Youssef AFSM, Strathmore (MFB).
Questions about the Governments Fire Services Restructure
Written by Adam Barnett
We have created an “Ask a question” page which can be accessed from here; https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FVZZ3DM
Feel free to distribute this link, and anyone who has questions about the Governments reform, can enter their questions there. We will then try and chase answers, and will create a page on our website with questions and answers as they become known.
As communicated on the weekend, we are seeking a meeting with the Minister, Craig Lapsely and Steve Warrington as soon as possible to discuss the detail, and will try and get answers to your questions. So let us know what questions you have – or the most common questions at your Brigade – and we’ll try and get answers for you.
NOTE TO MEMBERS – 21 May 2017
VICTORIAN FIRE SERVICES RESTRUCTURE
On Friday this week, the Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister James Merlino announced splitting the CFA, separating paid operational employees and volunteers into different organisations though major structural reform of Victoria’s Fire Services. This note outlines what VFBV know so far, about the proposal.
From what has been reported, these reforms have been drawn up by a small group working in secret within the Department of Premier & Cabinet, and has not involved the Fire Agencies. This group and their work has also reportedly been hidden from Cabinet itself. This would be the first time in Victoria’s history, that Fire Service Reform has not been the subject of any public scrutiny or consultation.
As a sign of Government’s desire to push through these changes before any detail is known, before any expert analysis/impact statements and before any public scrutiny, Minister Merlino has advised his plan is to introduce this legislation to Parliament next week.
VFBV’s understanding of the structural reforms based on the Premier and Ministers public comment and our discussions with Minister Merlino in a afternoon briefing last Friday after the public announcement, suggest that;
- MFB will cease to be an agency and Government will establish a new fire agency to be called Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV). According to the Government release, this agency will “lead firefighting in major regional cities and Melbourne”. This new agency will operate without a Board and CEO and will be led by a new “Commissioner”. The FRV Commissioner will “set the strategic direction and make very clear who is responsible when emergencies happen, so that action is immediate, seamless and appropriate.”
- All CFA operational paid staff will be transferred to the MFB replacement “Fire Rescue Victoria”. This means not just paid firefighters transferring to the new FRV, VFBV has been advised that also all paid CFA operational staff who currently support volunteer brigades across Victoria (Operations Officers, Operations Managers etc) will be transferred to FRV. It is unclear what happens to training instructors, community safety/education managers, Comms and Protective Equipment Staff, and training ground PAD Operators/Supervisors.
- CFA’s model of integrated brigades will be discontinued and FRV will be a 100% paid staff only service.
- All current 35 CFA Integrated brigade response area’s will be removed from the CFA, and redefined to become FRV first response areas.
- Current integrated brigades will be split into two separate Brigades – a paid firefighter FRV Brigade and a separate CFA Volunteer Brigade, “co-located” in the existing CFA facility. Each agency will own its own assets and equipment, including vehicles.
- The Government will remove the need for Local Councils to request changes to boundaries, and will instead establish an “Independent” Fire District Review Panel that will undertake periodic reviews, to determine any future changes to areas covered by FRV and CFA.
MINISTER MERLINO STATEMENTS ABOUT CONSULTATION WITH VFBV ARE UNTRUE
It is important to understand that none of these reforms have been the subject of consultation with VFBV. The Minister’s comments that we have been consulted, are false and misleading.
Despite rumours about the proposed split, circulating for some weeks now, there has been no consultation with VFBV and no briefing of any detail whatsoever.
Following news reports overnight on Thursday 18th May that Cabinet had met and approved reforms, VFBV CEO Andrew Ford requested an urgent meeting with the Minister. The Premier and Minister held their press conference at 10am on Friday 19th May and the Minister met with VFBV later that day at 12:45 and provided a briefing covering the publically released information pack. VFBV raised a number of questions that were not able to be answered and the Minister took these questions on notice.
The only other discussion on this issue was on Monday 8th May 2017 when the Minister informed VFBV he was considering “several options” to change the CFA arrangements because the proposed EBA agreed with the UFU would not pass the volunteer protection amendments to the Fair Work Act. VFBV expressed disappointment with this being the motivation of proposed reform let alone being factually incorrect. The Minister did not provide any detail, nor discuss any options he was considering, and would not be drawn on any detail other than to say an announcement of changes was “imminent.” It is simply inconceivable that just 10 days prior to cabinet approving the reforms that the Minister was not in a position to discuss particular ideas or options and seek volunteer feedback.
A letter from CFA CEO received late afternoon on Friday 19th May 2017 confirmed that significant reforms had been announced by the government. There has been no opportunity for consultation with CFA prior to this because up until late Thursday advice from CFA to VFBV was that there was no information known. Minister Merlino confirmed that even CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington had not been involved in the discussions until two or three days prior to the announcement, despite the Chief Officer being on annual leave.
Apart from raising serious failure to consult with CFA volunteers in accordance with the CFA Act and Volunteer Charter it beggars belief that such major reform could be contemplated for CFA without detailed assessment and advice about operational impacts, volunteer capacity impacts, cost impacts and future service delivery implications.
Even the Emergency Management Commissioner only recently stated, under oath, that there was no work that he had done towards the new model and that he was not doing any work on changing the CFA service model or boundaries or changes between CFA and MFB.
EIGHT PREVIOUS FIRE SERVICE REVIEWS QUOTED BY GOVERNMENT
The Premier and Minister has inferred that their proposed structural reform has been recommended by previous reviews and they list; 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission; 2011 Jones Inquiry; 2015 Fire Services Review, 2014/15 Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry and the 2015/16 Parliamentary Inquiry into CFA Training College Fiskville.
To be very clear, none of the recent major reviews have ever recommended that the CFA be split into a fully staffed service, and a 100% volunteer service. To suggest or imply otherwise is dishonest.
In fact, the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission specifically stated in its final report that it considered the CFA integrated service delivery should be maintained as a viable model.
In the Andrews Government’s own Fire Services Review conducted just recently, the Final Report actually calls for the strengthening of CFA’s integrated model to preserve the vital surge capacity of volunteers.
WHAT DO WE KNOW SO FAR
We have more questions than answers at this point.
The Minister has committed to providing answers to our questions as soon as practicable. He has also invited VFBV to meet with himself, Craig Lapsley and Steve Warrington so they can answer the Operational impacts. We are trying to secure that meeting as soon as possible and have requested that these discussions occur before final decisions are made on the proposed changes and particularly before any legislation change.
The following is a brief list of things we have specifically been able to work out based on the Premier & Ministers media commentary, our discussion with the Minister on Friday afternoon, and the Governments Fire Services website . We are forming an understanding on the following:
- The Government have already drafted Legislation and are planning to introduce it into Parliament this week. This will include amendments to the CFA Act. We have not seen either of these, and have asked for them.
- It appears that all CFA operational career firefighters (ranks from Recruit through to Senior Station Officer), all Operations Officers, all Operations Managers, all Regional Commanders will be transferred to FRV.
- The Minister was unclear about other classifications covered by the UFU such as Instructors, PAD Staff and Supervisors, Managers Community Safety and Communications staff. However, as all these classifications of employees are covered by the UFU and are referred to in the proposed EBA as “operational” we assume these positions are also likely to be transferred. It is unclear what will occur with the District Mechanical Officers who are also covered by the UFU but are under a separate EB.
- The Minister has confirmed there will be $5 million to meet the additional cost of FRV’s rebranding (which we assume to be Stations, Trucks, PPC and Uniforms.)
- While the OO’s (Operation Officers) and OM’s (Operational Managers) will be transferred to FRV, they will then be “seconded” or contracted back to work in CFA in their existing roles.
This would mean that OM’s and OO’s would be FRV employees, likely working under their FRV EBA – but then seconded back to CFA under a contract to be drawn up between CFA and FRV. In effect, these employees of FRV would be contracted to provide all of CFA’s operational management and volunteer brigade operational leadership support. - The Minister has confirmed to VFBV that BASO’s and Volunteer Support Officers will not be transferred to FRV, and will remain with CFA as they do currently.
- The Minister expects that appliances crewed by staff in integrated stations will be removed from CFA and transferred to FRV. It is unclear which specific appliances but as the Premier and Minister have both said FRV’s EB is likely to be very close to what the UFU proposed EB is, it is conceivable that FRV will use appliance based manning, so staff will be rostered to specific appliances, and those appliances will then be transferred to FRV, with the remaining left for CFA.
- It is unclear what will occur with the savings and assets currently owned by the CFA Integrated brigades
- Whilst the Minister has confirmed that there will be no current changes to the operational procedures of the first arriving agency appointing the Incident Controller – it is unclear what will happen if the new FRV EBA includes similar provisions to the proposed CFA EBA which did not allow staff to report to volunteers acting as Sector Commanders and Strike Team Leaders for example. Based on the Governments website it appears that the new FRV Commissioner may be provided additional powers to determine these arrangements in the future. It is not known what powers the CFA Chief Officer will have in relation to the amended CFA Act, the new FRV Act and/or any EBA terms negotiated by FRV.
GOVERNMENTS MOTIVATION BEHIND THIS CHANGE
Despite the spin about this change being to establish a modern and progressive fire service the Governments own acknowledgement is that the motivation for this change is to enable their industrial deal with the UFU to circumvent the CFA Act and Fair Work Act.
Problems with the UFU proposed EBA for CFA operational personnel are well documented, particularly the restrictions on CFA operational and resource decisions and on the way volunteers are deployed, equipped, supported, valued and respected.
To recap in simplest terms, the proposed EBA reached far beyond normal EBA matters of pay and conditions and was seeking to use federal industrial legislation (the Fair Work Act) to override the CFA Act on a number of matters including CFA Chief Officers statutory powers and issues core to CFA operating as a volunteer based and fully integrated modern fire service. The Fair Work Act was amended in late 2016, closing the loophole that the UFU EBA had been seeking to use.
The Fair Work Act amendment has no impact on normal EBA matters and only applies to aspects such as EBA clauses that restrict or limit a body such as CFA engaging or deploying it volunteers; providing support or equipment to those volunteers; managing its operations in relation to those volunteers. Importantly the Fair Work Act amendments simply require that the EBA does not require or permit a body to do something other than in accordance with the powers, functions and duties set down in the CFA Act. In essence it stops Federal legislation being used to circumvent State legislation, such as the CFA Act.
Despite the UFU, Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister James Merlino repeatedly claiming that the proposed EBA has no impact on CFA volunteers, they now say that the impact on volunteers are so big that the EBA would not pass the above test. And because they are unwilling to put the EBA to the Fair Work Commissions, ‘fair umpire’ test, they will carve CFA up to get around it.
The Governments proposal is cunning and looks simple, albeit flawed – separate the paid staff out into a new organisation and claim that because that organisation doesn’t have volunteers in it, the EBA isn’t subject to the Fair Work Act tests about restricting or limiting what volunteers do, how they are supported etc – then keep the firefighters separate and contract the operational staff back into CFA under the problematic EBA conditions.
The plan is a sham. It is not about public safety. If it were not a trick, then the Government would not be trying to make these reforms without any public scrutiny or consultation.
And the sham isn’t limited to CFA. It should not be lost on people that the MFB EBA is still in dispute and has been since 2013, with the MFB Board and Management refusing to approve their proposed EBA because of their fears about the impacts on public safety and the loss of power and control of their Chief Officer. Changing the MFB to FRV, and removing the MFB Board, MFB CEO and MFB Chief Officer means they can remove the last of the statutory appointed officials who are refusing to sign aspects of an EBA that diminish their statutory control and legislative responsibilities.
Furthermore claims that the proposition that the volunteer protection provisions of the Fair Work Act make it “impossible to implement the operational enterprise agreement at CFA or any agreement for operational staff” are dishonest. The UFU have refused to allow their proposed EBA be sent to the Fair Work Umpire for Fair Work to even make a determination. The Federal Minister of Employment (the person administering the law) released a Statement on Friday evening advising that the Victorian Government’s statement that the amended laws prevented a new enterprise agreement being entered into with paid CFA staff is “absolutely false” and using this claim to justify a plan to dismantle CFA, is “based on a deliberate and blatant falsehood.”
OPPORTUNITY TO UNDERSTAND DETAIL AND IMPACT IS ESSENTIAL PRIOR TO ANY DECISION
The scant detail that VFBV does have has been outlined above. Clearly there are many more questions than answers. VFBV has been inundated with volunteer concerns about the lack of detail and many are assuming this detail will be provided before any final decision is made.
Please do not be fooled by the lack of detail, it is either an intentional move to gloss over the obvious serious and detrimental impact this change will have; or perhaps, and just as alarming, the detail is not known and the impact analysis, practical implementation challenges, cost impact, etc has not been adequately done.
For any change of this magnitude, there must be due process of review and impact assessment before decisions are made and certainly before legislation is passed.
WHAT HAS VFBV ASKED FOR?
VFBV has requested the Minister:
- Not proceed with legislation or implementation until there is volunteer and community consultation prior to decisions being made, as is the legal obligation under the CFA Act
- Full details of the proposed changes, including answers to detailed operational questions and a full operational impact assessment of changes before a decision is made
- A full volunteer impact assessment of the proposed changes before a decision is made
- For the draft legislation and amendments to be provided to volunteers for consultation prior to it being considered by Parliament
Further, VFBV has communicated directly to the Minister:
- Its disappointment that the Government has again failed to respect the Volunteer Charter and its Statutory Obligations under the CFA Act
- The CFA Act places a Statutory legal obligation on both Government and CFA to meaningfully consult with volunteers, allowing enough time for real involvement on all matters which may impact upon them before the adoption or implementation of any new or changed policies, procedures or approaches
- That the Premier and Minister’s media messaging suggesting that volunteers are not capable of delivering fire and rescue services in urban areas is deeply offensive
- That the Ministers statement on Neil Mitchell’s 3AW on Friday morning where he stated “Well, I would say to you that in a high population, high density areas, the community deserves 24/7 career station delivering urban fire services” ignores the fact that volunteers do and can provide professional services in urban areas and is deeply offensive
- That the reforms outlined, and the way this is being done will have a significant and negative impact and will lead to reduced volunteer capability and decreased public safety
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Volunteers should not sit and wait for the detail given that the Government plan to push the legislation through before they release the detail.
VFBV has already raised a number of vitally important impact, implementation and governance questions with Minister Merlino and we are waiting on the answers to these. We have set down to the Minister our expectation that consultation obligations will be met prior to a decision and prior to legislation being put to parliament.
Volunteers should contact your local MPs and demand that this occur prior to a decision.
You need to be contacting your local MPs immediately, requesting, as a minimum that legislation not be considered before there is formal process of inquiry regarding its impact plus opportunity for volunteer consultation.
NEXT STEPS
- VFBV will continue to try and source details and communicate them to you
- Once the detail is known, we will work with members to allow volunteers to provide feedback. Particular emphasis will be to work with each Integrated Brigade to ensure their specific concerns and questions are addressed
- VFBV will continue to brief MP’s and other decision makers.
- We need you to assist by contacting your local MP with your questions and concerns and requesting they do not vote for any legislation before due process and opportunity for a more open inquiry into the changes proposed.
Victoria deserves a community and public safety driven solution to the current dispute, not a political one. VFBV is committed to providing a way forward to the current tension and always has been.
Since our first letters to the Fair Work Commission, Premier Andrews, Minister Merlino, and CFA Board/Management when this issue started all we have sought is for an opportunity for constructive, transparent and fair conversation with an opportunity for volunteers to have input.
We believe all firefighters, paid and volunteer alike, deserve respect and recognition for the work they do and the skills they have. We have always maintained that the pay and conditions of paid firefighters is their business. The pay and condition aspects of their EBA has already been agreed and implemented, and the EBA issues should be separated from how we design the best fire service arrangements for Victoria.
It is time for the dispute to end but putting a bad solution on the table is not the answer. VFBV will continue to urge the Government to stop, take a breath and work with us constructively and in consultation with our people delivering the services on the ground to find a model that will modernise Victoria’s fire and emergency services, not take it backward.
The Emergency Management Commissioner’s vision is “we work as one”. Further splitting the fire services is not the answer.
VFBV welcomes any reforms that improve the way Victorian Fire Services work but these reforms need to be developed collaboratively and openly.
Extensive evidence to the Bushfires Royal Commission gave a stark warning on this issue. Professor ‘t Hart warned:
“Redesigning emergency management systems or organisations often happens as a result of the sheer momentum for change created by the occurrence of a recent high impact tragedy. Unfortunately there is plenty of research to suggest that crisis induced reforms may create as many vulnerabilities as they seek to eliminate – particularly when they are too narrowly focussed on “wining the most recent war”.
During these difficult times, it is extremely important that you look after yourself, and your fellow peers.
Emergency contacts
If your query is urgent or you are having thoughts of harming yourself or others, you should seek immediate assistance using one of the contacts below:
CFA Member assistance program
Access to psychologists and counsellors who can provide support to members and their families in managing the impacts on their psychological health and safety.
Phone 1300 795 711 (24 hours)
Lifeline
Lifeline provides crisis support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Phone 13 11 14 (24 hours)
Non-urgent contacts
CFA has a number of services available to members and their families to deal with non-urgent issues:
Member assistance program
Access to psychologists and counsellors who can provide support to members and their families in managing the impacts on their psychological health and safety.
Phone 1300 795 711 (24 hours)
Peer support program
CFA Peers are trained to provide Psychological First Aid following Potentially Traumatic Events, one on one support and links to other services for members and their families.
Phone your local Peer Coordinator. A complete listing of all peers by District can be found at; http://cfaonline.cfa.vic.gov.au/mycfa/Show?pageId=publicDisplayDoc&docId=017975
Chaplaincy program
Chaplains are allocated on a district basis. They provide pastoral care to members and their families including spiritual, physical, psychological and emotional care. Support is not limited to a faith.
Chaplains can also be contacted directly. Contact your local CFA office for more details.
Phone 1800 337 068 (24 hours)
Wellbeing pilot program
Experienced Field Officers are available to work with brigades and Districts to manage mental health and relationship issues by providing:
Coaching and guidance to resolve relationship issues
Mental health promotion and education
Mediation, conciliation, group based negotiation
Phone 92628409 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Please look after yourselves and each other.
Members would be hearing via the media this morning, that the Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister James Merlino have announced a major restructure of Victoria's Fire Services. We have not been provided with any details or information and are learning everything as you are via the media. Comments by Minister Merlino that VFBV has been consulted about these changes are false and misleading. VFBV CEO has requested an urgent meeting with Minister Merlino today - and this is scheduled to occur this afternoon. This will be the first and only detail provided by the Minsiter to the VFBV regarding these structural changes to date.
As soon as we have details, we will make them available.
The decision of the Andrews State Cabinet to ram through changes to Victoria’s fire services without public and CFA volunteer consultation disregards Victoria’s community safety needs.
It is simply bad government.
Under the CFA Act volunteers must be fully consulted on any proposed change by government that affects their organisation, operations, service delivery, support and rights, before any decision is made. This ensures decisions are made based on all aspects of community safety. Today’s decision has never been a matter discussed or subject of consultation with CFA volunteers, which is a legal requirement of the CFA Act.
Applications are due to your Operations Manager by the 16th June.
The Minister for Emergency Services has announced the opening of this years VESEP (Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program).
VESEP provides funding to assist emergency service volunteers in acquiring a wide range of ancillary equipment in recognition of your significant contribution in supporting Victorian communities in times of emergency. The funding formula for the program in most instances provides for $2 for $1 of Brigade/Group funding.
The program launched in the year 2000, which back then was called the CSESP Program (Community Safety Emergency Support Program) and was designed in close consultation with VFBV and volunteers and achieved the goal of having an annual grants program for volunteers - designed by volunteers, with a low paperwork requirement, $2 in grant money for every $1 of local contribution for sustainability and local buy-in, local driven priorities with annual strategic state initiatives, robust district/region and state volunteer peer review and a quick and timely approval and notification process to the successful brigades and groups.
Since its inception, the program has completed over 1,400 projects totalling more than $105 million dollars.
VFBV have put together an Application Help Pack and Case Studies to assist Brigades and Groups with their applications. This pack offers practical suggestions and complements CFA’s Guidelines and the 2017/2018 Application forms.
The pack is available for download below, or if Brigades would like a printed copy posted to them, then please call the VFBV Office on 9886 1141
Members can also contact their local VFBV State Councillors and/or VFBV Support Officers for any additional information or assistance with their applications. Previous years Case Studies can be downloaded from here.
We wish all Brigades and Groups well with your applications and thank you for your untiring service to Victoria!
Editorial: Remember, Celebrate, Respect
By Andrew Ford, VFBV Chief Executive Officer
As this edition of ‘Fire Wise’ hits the streets our calendar brings us to three quite different and important reminders. Firstly, St Florien’s Day or International Firefighters Day on 4 May, when firefighters and communities across the world show support and recognition of our firefighters commitment and dedication, remember those lost or injured in the line of duty and say thank you.
And on Sunday 7 May many of us will have come together at Churchill or at other special places to remember CFA members who have given their lives in service to protecting their communities. My thoughts and prayers are for the families, friends and loved ones of those who have died in the line of duty and also for all those that have suffered loss or injury or sickness through their work, dedication and commitment to protecting their communities.
The second week of May (from 8–14 May) is National Volunteer Week, an annual and national celebration to acknowledge the generous commitment of our volunteers.
Generally our CFA volunteers shy away from recognition or thanks but I think it is really important for every volunteer to take a moment to reflect on the incredible and essential contribution you make to your communities and to communities across Victoria and beyond. You should feel good and be immensely proud of what you do, your professionalism and your commitment deserves to be celebrated.
Numerous reviews have documented and acknowledged that CFA’s volunteer based resource model is the only approach capable of economically and practically dealing with the number, scale and simultaneous occurrence of fires and other emergencies experienced in Victoria.
The CFA volunteers’ contribution to the community is incalculable with the value of labour alone estimated to be in excess of one billion dollars per year, let alone the contribution to community resilience, social connections, local knowledge and the substantial replacement cost or capacity loss if volunteers weren’t there.
There will be plenty of celebration and recognition for the work you do and my everlasting hope is that decision makers and others who influence public policy will continue to understand and respect the capacity, professionalism and essential contribution CFA volunteers make to public safety.
CFA is a modern and contemporary fire and emergency service, protecting not just country Victoria but also to more than 60% of metropolitan Melbourne and provincial centres and townships across the State. I am hopeful that times like National Volunteer Week can be used as a catalyst to remind everyone of the vital and huge volunteer resource that currently exists in CFA and other emergency service volunteers.
We also need to take the opportunity provided by National Volunteer Week to recognise and thank those who appreciate, respect and support the work we do as volunteers. To the families, employers, friends, decision makers; to the paid staff who work with and in support of volunteers; to our brother and sister volunteers in other agencies; and to our communities – THANK YOU for your ongoing support and respect.
As I write this, it would be foolish to ignore the fact that there is significant disquiet amongst many in our volunteer ranks. I understand this and desperately wish I could fix it. Over the past year and months I am constantly approached by volunteers and brigades who are concerned that the capacity, professionalism and essential need for our CFA volunteers may have been forgotten by some decision makers and politicians. Again, it would be foolish to ignore the actions and public messaging that give rise to this feeling.
Rather than sit and wait for the train wreck, I want to encourage all of you to use this month to get out and be loud about what volunteers do and what needs to be done to maintain and grow this wonderful resource for future generations. Please activate now, talk to everyone you know, to your local member of parliament, to your local community clubs and networks – thank them for their support; educate them if they are not aware of what you do; ask for their support to ensure the CFA model is respected, supported and sustained; and explain to them the consequence of a future where CFA volunteer capacity is reduced or where the cost of the fire service levy goes through the roof due to lack of respect and support for volunteers.
Explain the integral relationship between CFA volunteers in your local community and the surge capacity support that can be drawn from CFA volunteers across outer metropolitan Melbourne and other parts of Victoria when required.
And, in preparation for the potential that the rumoured CFA carve up could be a real backroom plan, explain to them the breadth of services and risk environments CFA volunteer brigades currently provide; the vital CFA surge capacity that the whole CFA volunteer network provides for Victoria; the way volunteer brigades can be supported (not replaced) by paid staff in busy areas so that CFA can maintain service to growing communities and at the same time retain the important surge capacity that comes from the brigades in these busy urbanised areas.
Help them understand that talk of carving CFA up into a paid urban service and a volunteer bushfire service, just to satisfy an industrial agenda, is a costly and potentially disastrous nonsense. Ask them to be ready to help you send a loud message to protect CFA and the CFA volunteer ethos.
Sadly I know lots of volunteers who are feeling fed up and many who have already either withdrawn, resigned or preparing to resign. My message to everyone is that we need to stay, we need to continue to serve our communities and we need to stay proud about the work we do.
Please be really clear, nothing in this message is about being anti change, or anti paid staff or anti Government. Of course we need to evolve and change as communities change, of course we need to grow and adapt our capacity to meet changing community needs and of course we need to support and be supported by paid staff in various roles. Our paid CFA staff, along with all of the paid workers and other volunteers in the emergency sector, do a fantastic job and it is vitally important that we respect one another and work well together as one team.
But my message is strong on several key points and that is that any contemplation of change to the CFA model must not be done just to pacify an industrial agenda or secret deal; must not be done without transparent, fair and genuine consultation with volunteers; and must not be driven by anything other than the interests of the community.
And if the play is foul, we should call it, protest it and actively contest it. Please stay in touch via your local VFBV delegates and VFBV website for further updates.
Planned Burning as Training
For many years, VFBV has been calling for a holistic approach to planned burning, and for CFA to promote the training advantages of participating in planned burns. Planned burns allow newer members to observe and learn fire behaviour, and provide an opportunity for experienced veterans to pass on their knowledge to others.
Volunteers on the VFBV/CFA Joint Community Safety Committee are pleased to see that recent planned burns have developed into exercises, not just in fire behaviour and fuel load interactions but are also offering learnings in weather behaviour, impact on flora and fauna, bush heritage and Indigenous fire management practices.
The camps provide practical hands-on experience and each participant is tasked with both coaching and mentoring roles, allowing involvement by volunteers across all aspects of the planned burn.
Recent camps have also involved Traditional Owners, Trust for Nature (landowners) bird scientists, Forest Fire Management Victoria staff, plantation owners and CFA career staff. The exercises worked well, building valuable relationships and creating an atmosphere of co-operation in complex burn scenarios. The Committee has requested CFA promote the camps and provide brigades with opportunities to become involved in upcoming Burn Camps. Brigades are encouraged to keep an eye out for future burn camps and get involved.
Medium Tanker Evaluation
VFBV will shortly be conducting volunteer evaluation of current build Medium Tankers.
The purpose of the evaluation is to gather feedback from Brigades that have been issued with Medium Tankers and assess how the cab chassis, locker configuration and base equipment is operating, and if there are any areas of improvement that could be suggested for future builds.
Part of a continuous improvement initiative, VFBV has offered to run the evaluation and will shortly be inviting feedback from any members who wish to provide their thoughts and experiences of how the Medium Tankers are working in the field.
Keep an eye out for the survey and if you have any feedback or design ideas that you think would benefit future builds – please get involved.
Hazardous Tree
In order to comply with EMV’s Joint Standard Operating Procedure J8.03 CFA is required to update and distribute its Hazardous Tree awareness and training materials, and ensure all members responding to bushfire incidents have undergone the new Hazardous Tree Management information training package.
During discussions, VFBV has reiterated its position that all training be made available to volunteers via flexible methods, multiple mediums and that blended learning models be supported where possible.
CFA has advised that it has incorporated these principles in its proposed package, and has developed processes that will minimise disruption to individual members, but still meet the required learning outcomes. Given the risk that hazardous tree’s presents to firefighters, VFBV has supported this training being made a high priority item before the next fire season.
Brigades and members are encouraged to undertake the awareness package (which can be delivered online, on DVD or by Brigades/Groups) at their earliest opportunity.
ROP Safety Cushions
The Joint Equipment & Infrastructure Committee reviewed volunteer feedback from the field trails over the summer season of the Tanker ROP Safety Cushion prototypes.
These cushions have been designed to minimise the vibration of the vehicle and road being transferred into the spine and back of members, and prevent members being slid from side to side and coming in contact with the ROPS during travel.
Feedback was overwhelming positive, with the Committee selecting a design and material and recommending a funding proposal be prepared to advance a retro-fit roll-out of the cushions to all Tankers with external ROPs.
We will keep you apprised of progress.
VESEP Update
At the time of going to press, there has not yet been an announcement of this year’s 2017/18 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP), however VFBV encourages Brigades and Groups, as it does every year - to be planning well in advance and have their support documents at the ready. This year’s program will be the 18th since it’s launch in the year 2000.
VESEP contributes $2 for every $1 of funding contributed by Brigade/ Group/Unit, and hardship provisions are available for Brigades that can demonstrate they are unable to fund the one third contribution.
When the program is officially announced by the State Government -VESEP grant applications usually need to be with your OM within approximately six weeks of the opening so your local DPC (District Planning Committee) can then meet the following week to consider and prioritise applications – so plan ahead and get ready.
For assistance in preparing your application, or getting started on planning/fundraising for possible future funding rounds, talk to your VFBV State Councillor or VFBV Support Officer, or visit our website for case studies on successful applications from past years. VFBV also has an Application Help Pack which it updates each year once the program is announced, that provides templates and other useful information to assist with your application. Previous VFBV Application Help Packs are available from our website.
Upcoming VFBV Board Vacancies
All members are encouraged to apply for the VFBV Board positions as advertised in the last edition of ‘Fire Wise’.
VFBV aims to attract a broad range of unique and diverse skills, perspectives and abilities to our organisation.
VFBV encourages all members to consider applying for the forthcoming VFBV Board positions with four positions expiring 1 October 2017.
Applications for the VFBV Board close 1 August 2017 – further information is on our website or can be obtained from the VFBV office on 9886 1141 or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Position Vacant – VFBV Policy & Advocacy Officer
- Key Strategic Advocacy & Communications Role
- Facilitate and Formulate Policy
VFBV is seeking to appoint a talented and motivated Policy and Advocacy Officer to work fulltime based at our Burwood East office involving broad ranging and rewarding work that supports and benefits our CFA Brigade members across Victoria. This is a key role in the small VFBV team.
The VFBV Policy and Advocacy Officer will play a vital role helping VFBV to work with volunteers to research issues, develop our position on key issues and advocate this position to decision makers and the media.
The person we are looking for will have strong analytical and research skills along with strong verbal and written communication skills. Relevant tertiary qualifications or experience in a related discipline is desirable. Highly developed interpersonal, facilitation and time management skills and the ability to establish and build relationships and work collaboratively with, and influence, a range of external and internal stakeholders is essential.
In addition to relevant skills, the successful applicant will need to have demonstrated empathy with the volunteer culture, be a good listener, and can navigate through complex issues resolution, be a self-starter and have a passion to improve arrangements that benefit the welfare and efficiency of CFA volunteers.
A copy of the Position Description and Application Process can be found on our website or by calling the VFBV office on (03) 9886 1141
More...
The second week of May (from 8–14 May) is National Volunteer Week, an annual and national celebration to acknowledge the generous commitment of our volunteers.
VFBV Media Release
MEDIA RELEASE
May 7, 2017
VICTORIA’S CFA VOLUNTEERS LAUDED FOR PROTECTING THE COMMUNITY
Victoria’s 60,000 CFA volunteers are being lauded during National Volunteer Week for continuing a great Australian tradition of protecting their local communities and beyond.
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria CEO Andrew Ford said Victoria’s volunteers are essential to public safety and provide a professional service that is effective and affordable.
“Our dedicated volunteers are continuing a great Australian tradition that is well respected in our communities,” Mr Ford said.
“This week gives us the opportunity to recognise our volunteers and the work they do and also our communities, employers and families for their support of volunteers.”
Mr Ford said volunteers are part of the fabric of society and contribute to community resilience. “All CFA volunteers provide a professional service and are glad to do so because they want to contribute to their communities,” he said.
Volunteers make up 95 per cent of Victoria’s firefighting force, are trained with nationally-recognised qualifications and are on call around the clock every day of the year.
Mr Ford said the flexibility and strength of 60,000 CFA volunteers allows help to be sent across Victoria and beyond in times of emergency.
“Being one of the most bushfire prone areas in the world, we know how important it is for Victoria to be able to call on large numbers of trained and experienced volunteers for big fires and other serious incidents,” he said.
“We can be confident our volunteers are always ready to respond to support communities whenever and wherever disasters occur.”
CFA brigades–mostly run by volunteers– protect 60 per cent of suburban Melbourne, regional cities and all of regional Victoria, providing professional services for everything from bushfires and house fires to floods and road accidents.
National Volunteer Week is from May 8-14
The capacity of volunteers to respond to major disasters around the state is explained in the VFBV’s animated clip found at www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRcDE6d3ljw
CFA Events
CFA have advised of the following 'thank you' events;
State Control Centre Tours
Responding to volunteer criticism that all the tours were originally scheduled on weekdays, CFA have now added two weekend tours to the schedule so those that weren't able to make the original posted dates, might wish to check the two new dates announced.
As part of National Volunteer Week, CFA is giving CFA volunteers the opportunity to take a tour and see what happens behind the scenes at the State Control Centre (SCC).
State Control Centre Tour
Host: Emergency Management Victoria (EMV)
Location: SCC – 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne
Session one: Wednesday 10 May from 2.30pm to 4.30pm
Session two: Friday 12 May from 2.30pm to 4.30pm
Session three: Saturday 13 May from 10.00am to 11.30am
Session four: Saturday 13 May from 2.00pm to 3.30pm
The SCC is an important base that is run by Emergency Management Victoria (EMV). The centre is instrumental in working together with many emergency services to coordinate, lead and organise initiatives whilst supporting all communities.
The tour will start with an overview of the SCC workings and each agency’s usage.
Participants will then be split up into smaller groups and taken on a guided tour of the sections within the SCC to find out for themselves the work that is accomplished using real-life situations.
Sections will include
- Intelligence including mapping
- Social Media
- Public Information
- Fban – Fire Behaviour Analysis
- Airdesk
- Resources and logistics
There are 40 places available on each SCC tour. To register via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. as soon as possible and include your name, contact number, agency, volunteer number, tour date and preferred time.
Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority Tour
As part of National Volunteer Week, CFA is giving CFA volunteers the opportunity to take a tour and see what happens behind the scenes at Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA).
Host: Anthony Jones – ESTA
Location: ESTA – 33 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East
Session one: Tuesday 9 May from 4.00pm to 4.45pm
Session two: Tuesday 9 May from 5.00pm to 5.45pm
ESTA is dedicated to delivering quality community safety services to the Victorian Public by providing the critical link between the Victorian Community and the State’s emergency services agencies.
The tour will start with an overview of ESTA followed by a tour and question and answer time.
There are 12 places available on each ESTA tour, all places for these tours have been filled.
Photo Competition
As part of National Volunteer Week 2017 CFA wants to honour volunteers through pictures taken by volunteers.
The CFA National Volunteer Week photo competition is open to all CFA volunteers to capture the essence of CFA Values (safety, respect, together, integrity and adaptive) and teamwork that exists throughout brigades around the state.
CFA draws together volunteers from all walks of life. But no matter what we bring as individuals, it's only through cooperation, shared values and teamwork that our brigades can thrive.
This competition sets out to capture this through imagery. So now is the time to get your creative juices flowing. What makes your volunteers so special to you or your community? Be traditional or think outside the square and be artistic. The choice is yours.
The prize winner will receive a $250 Bunnings voucher plus a framed copy of the winning photo. The winning Photo will also be used as the cover photograph on the CFA Facebook page during National Volunteer Week and shared across CFA social media during May 2017.
For the Prize Winner’s brigade, they will receive a framed copy of the Photo and a prize up to the value of $1,000 for the purchase of non-operational equipment ie branded marquee, BBQ, lawnmower, chairs fridge etc. CFA will purchase the equipment on the brigade’s behalf, no cash will be given and there will be no reimbursement for equipment or goods already purchased by the brigade.
So start snapping now. The competition opens on Friday 21 April 2017 and closes Wednesday 3 May 2017 at 5pm. Email your entry as a JPEG file to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. (Maximum image size 10MB and if entering twice images to be sent separately)
Individuals can submit up to two entries. Entry is open to all CFA volunteers (CFA employees can only enter if they are current CFA brigade volunteers).
Parade of Honour
There will be a Lap of Honour around the MCG on Saturday 13 May before the AFL game between Essendon and Geelong as part of AFL Country Round. This Lap of Honour will also include volunteers from SES and Life Saving Victoria. Contact your District OM if you are interested in attending.
A Note For Members: Law firm blog about CFA changes
Tuesday April 11th 2017
You may become aware of a legal blog article, published a few days ago by Philip Gardner a partner with law firm Ryan Carlisle Thomas Lawyers, and circulating on social media. The article is promoting a restructure of Victorian fire service boundaries and a carve up of CFA.
Philip Gardner and Ryan Carlisle Thomas lawyers have been engaged by the UFU at various times and acted for the UFU in seeking to block VFBV from being allowed to assist the Fair Work Commission (FWC) a year or so ago when we sought to assist the FWC to understand volunteer concerns with the proposed EBA prior to the events, sackings, Supreme Court action and Fair Work Act amendment that followed over the past year.
Ironically, the author as a lawyer has paid no heed to the CFA or Emergency Management Acts, let alone the high functioning capacity of our emergency management arrangements regardless of the ongoing UFU campaign.
The author ignores the facts that:
- CFA is a successful world renowned volunteer based integrated fire service operating in suburban, regional and rural Victoria (hasn’t been anything like the blogs description of CFA as being only a rural based service fire service for generations and has always had urban and rural components);
- a small number of paid operational staff including firefighters have been a successful feature of CFA and its predecessors going back to the 19th century;
- Victoria’s emergency management capacity to deal with fire, floods and other disasters across the state (and often simultaneous emergency events in different parts of the State) is based on the surge capacity inherent in our volunteer system, particularly from the large number of urban volunteers who have sufficient numbers to provide local response capacity and at the same time surge capacity to multiple events across the state for days, weeks and sometimes months – pushing out volunteers from urban areas using boundary changes would be truly disastrous for Victoria;
- Victoria’s emergency management capability cannot exist without the huge numbers of trained and experienced volunteers, which can supply trained, qualified and experienced firefighters (for local service delivery and around the state as needed) for weeks and even months if necessary and to multiple concurrent emergencies because of the very large numbers;
- there will be enormous cost to the community if the existing urban volunteer brigades in suburban Melbourne and major regional cities were to be pushed aside and replaced by additional paid firefighters;
- the UFU, Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister James Merlino have made repeated claims that the proposed EBA has no effect on volunteers and if these statements are true the Fair Work Act amendments have no application. The Fair Work Act amendments only apply if EBA clauses interfere with an emergency organisations (such as CFA), legitimate work of:
- engaging and deploying its volunteers;
- providing support and equipment to its volunteers;
- managing its relationship or work with any recognised emergency in relation to volunteers;
- managing its operations in relation to those volunteers;
- being able to consult, make decisions and take action regarding the above;
- recognising, valuing, respecting and promoting the contribution of its volunteers; and
- complying with the State laws such as the CFA Act
- the Fair Work Act amendments do not prohibit CFA management from making decisions about minimum staffing. The author forgets to mention that he is not even recognising volunteers as a legitimate part of crewing numbers;
- the Fair Work Act amendments have not caused any disruption to CFA’s management of its paid firefighters and the amendments have not even been tested because the UFU has resisted CFA attempts to have the proposed EBA considered by the Fair Work Commission;
- the Fair Work Act amendments do not render CFAs management of its employed firefighters unworkable and they are entirely consistent with the current CFA Chief Officers view (as presented to the Senate Inquiry into the Fair Work Act amendment) that any award or agreement made under the Fair Work Act cannot be allowed to interfere with or detract from his powers and obligations under the CFA Act;
- the Federal Government’s Fair Work Act amendments do no more than enforce what is in Victoria’s own CFA and Emergency Management Acts as they apply to volunteers which has been repeatedly supported by both Labor and the Coalition in the Victorian Parliament – the Federal amendments simply removed an anomaly whereby the enterprise bargaining arrangements under the Fair Work Act (up until last October’s Federal amendments) could be manipulated to by-pass the state parliament and override the CFA and Emergency Management Acts and the framework they have for the organisation and operation of CFA (and other) volunteers.
Having ignored these critically important facts, the article is nothing but pure propaganda (without factual merit) aimed at planting a seed of fear and resentment towards volunteers to further another agenda. I think it is time that we called this out. It is not about community safety or a benefit to Victoria if it displaces or erodes volunteer capacity. And all this comes at an enormous cost, both in dollars; loss of emergency management capability and capacity; loss of local community capacity and reduced community resilience.
Editorial: Thank you CFA volunteers, you give me great hope
By Andrew Ford, VFBV Chief Executive Officer
Like my reflections in the last edition of Fire Wise, this month I want to continue my reflection on the great enthusiasm and dedication shown by hundreds of CFA volunteers and the CFA staff who made the recent VFBV State Championships held in Bendigo and Wodonga, so inspiring and such a great symbol of our CFA spirit and hope.
And the great truth is that what we see at the VFBV State Championships is just a brief portrait and window into the amazing things our CFA members do in their local communities every day of the year. Communities from all corners of Victoria, well known townships and places many have never heard of.
The events treated those who attended to a picture of thriving young volunteer participation, just under 800 junior volunteer participants in total; almost 2000 competitors altogether at the State championships and many more who participated just as eagerly in local support, training and District events throughout the year. Hundreds of volunteers, long serving CFA Brigade and Group leaders, mentors and support teams working alongside the competitors and in the background.
Generations of volunteers knowing the value the championships provide to recruiting new members, honing their teamwork and practical skills. They represent tomorrows dedicated CFA volunteers, future volunteer leaders and the next generation of CFA, building community connections, social fabric and todays local capacity.
Emergency Management Commissioner Lapsley wrote to me following his attendance thanking VFBV for the commitment and professionalism that made these events the success they are and recognising the commitment and leadership that is displayed. Talking with Craig and CFA newly appointed Chief Officer Steve Warrington and many others I am encouraged by a deep recognition that many of todays most skilled and dedicated volunteers and EM Sector leaders (including both Craig and Steve) cut their teeth as junior championship competitors.
As an example, one volunteer brigade has five of their past six Captains having started their CFA volunteering as junior members running at local fire brigade championships. Literally hundreds of CFA’s most experienced operational volunteers started their volunteering in the same way. There is justifiably a huge emphasis currently on encouraging all of us to embrace greater diversity in CFA including a need to encourage more women in CFA. The signs are positive for the future if we look at the young people coming through the brigade teams at the recent championships – just under 40% of the junior competitors were young women.
Talking of this, you will notice an advertisement in this edition of Fire Wise for VFBV Board positions. I encourage anyone who believes they can contribute at VFBV Board level to apply. Talking with Samantha Rothman, one of our last VFBV Board appointments there are many people out in our volunteer pool who underestimate the value that they could bring to the Board table. I know many very wise older people but I also know some extremely impressive young people. And gender is not a determinant of brainpower of leadership. So please make the Board selection panels job as hard as you can and serve up a fantastic pool of applicants!
Back to the championships. During these two major events, I had a constant stream of volunteers from all over the state, some I knew well, others I had not met before, all offering their gratitude and thanks for the work VFBV is doing and offering their full support for us to keep up the efforts to preserve the very essence of CFA – volunteerism, community participation, dedication and respect. Thank you for this support it means a lot and I assure you we will not give up.
It is no secret that CFA has been enduring tough times both at the top end and also right down to grass roots and brigade level. We have had our previous Board sacked for standing up for the rights of volunteers and CFA decision making powers; we have had an outstanding CEO, Lucinda Nolan, pushed out for similar reasons and gagged from talking about her concerns; our well respected and values driven CFA Chief Officer Joe Buffone resigned, publicly stating that the proposed EBA/industrial agreement between UFU and CFA would fundamentally change his decision making approach and inhibit his ability to discharge his statutory obligations as CFA Chief Officer; Minister Jane Garret forced out and demonstrating guts and real integrity at the expense of her cabinet position; and many other senior CFA officers gone or numbed into inaction.
The latest anxiety swirls around speculation that somewhere in the depths of bureaucracy or Government there is a secret plan or deal being done with the UFU to dismantle the CFA structure to circumvent the industrial parameters now in place through the Fair Work Act amendment, or worse, possibly just as pay back for volunteers making a stand. There was naturally huge talk about this amongst all attending the championships and elsewhere throughout CFA circles. And many people are asking for answers.
Unfortunately, I do not have much to report other than to repeat what I have reported previously. VFBV has not been involved in any discussion, if there is one.
Even the person on the street knows it would be reckless for any proposal that erodes Victoria’s volunteer fire and emergency service capacity to be contemplated, especially if this is driven by political or industrial motivation.
On an encouraging note, despite the message being pedalled by some and the real speculation by many senior officers within the EM Sector, both CFA Chief Officer and the Emergency Management Commissioner have assured me that they are not involved in any discussions, plans or intent to restructure, carve up or dismantle the CFA volunteer based and integrated service model.
Only a few weeks ago, in response to the current Victorian State Parliamentary Standing Committee on Environment and Planning (Inquiry into fire season preparedness) Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley stated under oath that there is no work that he has done toward a new model for CFA and there is nothing in his remit to Government to look at changing legislation or changing organisations (CFA and MFESB).
He stated that he is not doing any work on changing the CFA service model or boundaries or work on amalgamations between CFA and MFB.
I think we owe it to these two, as the people with legislated roles and powers, to trust that no one would contemplate a change without their careful consideration and formal advice.
On the one hand I urge everyone to maintain hope and faith that our leaders, laws and systems will not fail us. Stay motivated as volunteers and for now keep focussed on working as a team, respecting one another and delivering services to the community. On the other hand, if our laws and systems are ignored, be ready to come out very strongly if someone dumps a carve up of CFA on the table. Get your networks in place now and stay tuned so that we can keep you informed.
Engaging Diversity
VFBV continues its programs of encouraging and engaging diversity from the ground up. This year’s VFBV Leadership Program continues to embrace and support volunteers from other agencies, with scholarships awarded to volunteers from CFA, SES, Ambulance Victoria, St John, Live Saving Victoria and the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard.
Over the last 12 months, the VFBV Multi-Agency Youth Network is growing from strength to strength with over 100 young volunteer delegates formally joining the network to represent their District, and start the journey towards establishing our very first State Youth Council with the support and encouragement of VFBV State Council.
Also over the last couple of months, brigade and group competition teams – both juniors and seniors have been on display to the Victorian community, with over 1,800 individual competitors competing at this year’s VFBV State Championships. This year’s State Rural Junior Championships has set a new record for female participation, with over 40% of competitors comprised of young women representing their brigade, competing in fully integrated teams, and eager to join the ranks as senior volunteer firefighters in the years to come.
And last, but by no means least, following this year’s fire season VFBV is this month rolling out its new Brigade Delegate training package across the State, which has been themed as engaging diversity to complement our other programs, and provide practical skills and knowledge to volunteers taking on the VFBV Delegate role at their brigade or group level. Please refer to its dedicated story below.
Brigade delegate training
VFBV District Councils can now book their local VFBV Delegate Development Program course. This two day course will be held on weekends and has been mapped to national competencies from the Australian Public Safety units, and has been themed as “VFBV Delegate Development Program: Engaging Diversity.”
It has been designed on the premise that if we want to attract, encourage and support a diverse range of leaders and delegates now and into the future, what kind of skills will our current leaders need to have to do that effectively?
This course will provide delegates with tools and techniques to improve and develop their issues resolution, communication skills, problem solving, decision making, teamwork, relationship and network building, strategic thinking and leadership. The objective is to increase the level of engagement between District Councils, brigades/groups and individuals, and help delegates be more involved, not just with their own issues but issues on a broader scale.
The course is available to all current and aspiring VFBV Brigade/Group delegates and office holders, with approximately 20 places available per district. As an option, members who successfully complete the course and associated assessments will be eligible to enrol to have their training recognised on their training records through a RPL process, that VFBV will support individual candidates with. Alternatively, members can simply do the course to enhance or develop their skills as a brigade delegate.
VFBV District Councils are currently registering available dates, and will shortly be contacting their brigades with full details.
To nominate for the course or ask a question, contact your local District Council executive member, or VFBV Support Officer for more details.
VFBV Affiliation
VFBV’s representation of CFA’s volunteers continues to win growing approval and support with a new record high of 95% Brigades affiliating with VFBV and almost 90% of Brigades subscribing to the VFBV Welfare Fund in 2016/17.
After a very challenging year, it is extremely rewarding to know we have record levels of membership and support. Brigades across Victoria are more connected with VFBV than ever; our VFBV State, District and Brigade delegates are more informed and active than ever and doing a great job.
The 2017/18 affiliation notices for your Brigade/ Group’s VFBV affiliation and VFBV Welfare Fund Subscriptions are with your Secretary now, with a due date of 30 June 2017.
As well as affiliating with VFBV, we strongly encourage Brigades to subscribe to the VFBV Welfare Fund. It can provide small grants to assist volunteer members, their immediate family members and long serving ex-members, who are suffering significant financial hardship, with grants up to $5,000.
VFBV and its predecessor associations established the fund in 1913. Since then the fund has helped over 1,000 volunteers. Over the last 10 years alone, the fund has provided grants worth over $1M, with an approval rate of 100% of received applications approved by the Management Committee over the last 12 months.
For any queries about VFBV affiliation contact your State Councillor or the VFBV office on (03) 9886 1141.
State Championship results
At this year’s 134th Annual Urban State Championships, Maryvale won its 16th State Championship Grand Aggregate at Bendigo with 88 points.
Maryvale’s win was closely contested by Kangaroo Flat with both teams on almost equal points at the start of the final day of competition, however Maryvale sealed its win with two first placings to Kangaroo Flat’s one win in the Hose & Reel Eights.
With early historical records dating back to 1882 only recording brigade names and not competitors, it is believed that this year for possibly the first time, a female competitor has competed in a winning team in the A Section Hose & Reel 8s event.
Kate Dargaville and her team-mates Jackson, Thomas, Jamie, James, Craig, Lachie, Jack and David representing Kangaroo Flat were successful. Of special note is four members of the team are all from the same family, with coach David Dargaville joined by daughter Kate and sons Jackson and Thomas, all leaving an enviable legacy.
Tatura easily won the B Section aggregate with 75 points, with a couple of the brigade’s junior competitors now moving into the senior team – both juniors having been members of the Tatura team winning successive Junior State Championship titles for the past four years. Pakenham convincingly won the C Section Aggregate with 84 points, from Hoppers Crossing 53 points and Eaglehawk B 51 points.
Aggregate winners at the 61st Senior State Rural Championship at Wodonga were Division 1 Beazley’s Bridge A with 52 points, from second placed Greta A with 42 points (winner of last year’s Division 1). Division 2 was won by Chiltern A with 56 points with Dunrobin/ Nangeela C second with 38 points; and Sedgwick A won Division 3 with 32 points from Pearcedale B with 22 points.
At this year’s 39th Junior State Rural Championships, Stuart Mill won its first Championship with Eldorado A a close second. Stuart Mill A won the 11-13 Years Aggregate with Eldorado A winning the 11-15 Years Aggregate – but Stuart Mill A won the overall Junior Grand Aggregate on 82 points, with Eldorado A second on 74 points.
Below: Some of the action from the Junior State Rural Championships at Wodonga and Urban State Championships at Bendigo.
Newsletter - March 2017
Editorial: Our inspiring young CFA volunteers
By Andrew Ford, VFBV Chief Executive Officer
I want to take this opportunity to reflect on some of the amazing aspects of our wonderful CFA.
A few weeks ago the VFBV State Junior Fire Brigades Championships were held at Tatura, and a big thank you and well done to the local organising committee, officials and supporters who made this event happen.
There is enough just in the organising, set up and running of this event to be proud of but on top of this there is a the fact that what we see in the young CFA volunteers attending this event is tomorrows CFA, future community leaders and our successors.
Talking to people over the Tatura weekend, the smart leaders knew the value of engaging young people in CFA, in their communities and in the broader sense of social connection, belonging and self-worth. Young girls and boys, men and women from a huge range of cultural and community backgrounds, bright eyed and full of spirit, having fun, learning skills, and already with strong foundations of community service and engagement.
The smart people know that this is one of the many great examples of how CFA volunteers pass on the baton, pass on the sense of commitment and pass on the connection with the big CFA family.
A challenge for us is that there will always be some people who miss it altogether and either don’t bother to wonder how the huge network of CFA brigades are always there when needed, or marvel in surprise when they realise what a huge army of highly trained volunteers turn up to just get on with the job when it needs to be done.
For people who have been around CFA for a long time, it is easy to take for granted that the names on the shirts came from every corner of Victoria and that there were dozens and dozens of communities represented.
It is easy to take for granted that these young competitors demonstrated some terrific practical fireman ship skills and it is easy to take for granted that many of these young volunteers are already on the path to becoming dedicated volunteers with CFA, with other services, or across many. And because it is how CFA does things, it is easy to accept that these young people trained for months, that they had support teams and families who encouraged and supported them and that there is a huge amount of work done back in the local brigade to encourage, motivate and keep them involved. But we mustn’t take this for granted.
And we mustn’t forget to be incredibly proud of all of the good things that CFA is, has always been and will hopefully still be long into the future. Like watching a sunset, we need to continually stop and appreciate what we have and consciously watch out for it and look after it.
Plenty of wise folk talk about how Victoria’s emergency management capability could not exist without volunteers and about the vital importance of CFA volunteers. And there is plenty said about the need to build resilient communities, build communities who share responsibility for their own wellbeing and safety; and build community participation.
There is also plenty said about engaging young people in this journey. Imagine we were starting from scratch and someone said they could activate dozens of young people, from towns and suburbs across Victoria, to come together and be directly involved in building tomorrows community leaders, tomorrows community networks and tomorrows volunteers.
Imagine if they said they could do this in such a way that it wasn’t just written down in a fancy strategy document but was going to be practical, tangible, ongoing and driven by the local communities themselves. What an initiative? where do we invest? would be the likely reaction.
I know I will see the same beauty and incredible spirit at our forthcoming VFBV State Urban Senior Championships on the long weekend in March and our VFBV State Rural Championships to be held in April. So, well done to the people who made the Tatura VFBV State Junior Urban Fire Brigades happen. Well done to all of CFA’s young volunteers and thank you for your time and energy. Well done to all CFA volunteers, young and old, newcomers and those that have served for decades. Well done to all of the CFA people, family support, employers and everyone who helps foster and encourage tomorrows CFA.
And particularly to the bright eyed optimistic young volunteers I saw on the track at Tatura, thank you for reminding us of the beauty of CFA and of what we have inherited from those who created and continuously evolved this marvellous community legacy.
I have chosen to reflect on the Tatura event simply because it sticks in my mind as a recent event but this doesn’t for a minute detract from the other examples of the wonderful CFA spirit that some of us are lucky enough to see regularly at brigade level, other events, incidents etc.
The same spirit, bond and CFA family was very evident at the funeral I attended for long serving and highly respected CFA officer Mark Reid.
Mark worked with many brigades and volunteers across all parts of Victoria, he understood and deeply valued the CFA volunteer based ethos. I had the good fortune of working closely with Mark, he was a respected leader and good friend to many CFA people, he will be sadly missed.
VFBV Multi-Agency Youth Network Update
VFBV’s multi-agency Youth Network continues to build, with another eight field visits planned across the State over the next couple of months to bring together District Council Executives, Youth Champions and young members looking to become involved. Youth panels have now been established in almost every district across the State, demonstrating the enthusiasm and interest amongst young volunteers across the sector. Encouragingly, members from other volunteer agencies are being accepted by members with open arms, and are actively contributing to the panels.
Two field meetings were recently held between VFBV Youth Network members and the Victorian Equal Opportunities and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC). The first meeting brought together young CFA volunteers from four regional Districts and the second meeting was held in an outer metropolitan District.
Our young volunteers showed a high level of maturity and expressed a broad range of issues that were reflective of other young volunteers across the organisation. Their views were balanced and fair, and VEOHRC were interested and engaged throughout the conversation and welcomed the valuable input of our young members. VEOHRC assured our young volunteers that the issues raised would inform the VEOHRC Review into Equity & Diversity, and the Commission was very grateful for the time and energy of all the participants. VFBV continues to support and assist this extremely important review.
44th Junior Championships
Tatura has won its fourth successive VFBV State Junior Championship with another impressive performance, coming 1st place in 10 of the 18 events and creating one New Record Time in the Y Coupling 4 Competitors, Under 17 Years event.
The Tatura team had a significant lead in the final Grand Aggregate with 103 points, from Melton A on 37 points and Harvey A (W.A.) on 34 points. Tatura also won both the Dry and Wet Aggregates, as well as both the Under 14 Years Aggregate and the Under 17 Years Aggregate.
Other strong performances came from Harvey and Melton – Melton with 4 teams, were 2nd in the Dry Aggregate, 2nd and 3rd in the Under 14 Years Aggregate, and 2nd in the Grand Aggregate. Harvey who travelled from W.A. with 2 teams, were 2nd in the Under 17 Years Aggregate, and 3rd in the Dry, Wet and Grand Aggregates.
The Championships were again held in Tatura and attracted more than 700 junior competitors aged between 11 and 16 years old, with 78 teams from across the state, including 2 teams from Harvey, Western Australia.
Pumping Pit Recommissioning
VFBV has been strongly advocating for CFA to commit to a remediation and recommissioning program for pumping pits, whose use was temporarily suspended back in February 2015.
There are approximately 91 pumping pits in use across the state. Of vital importance is the need for pumping pits to be safe, and for there to be an efficient and timely program to clean, monitor water quality and ultimately recommission them for use.
For many Brigades, pumping pits form the only safe, controlled and viable option for brigades to train in drafting and other related pump operations and skills maintenance.
CFA has now issued a Work Instruction on the Management of Pumping Pits, and have implemented an approved recommissioning process. CFA has advised that the ultimate decision to recommission and fund the cost of these works rests with the Region. Water testing costs between $300/$400, with the cost of cleaning and refilling to be approximately $1,000.
VFBV/CFA Joint Training Committee delegates have raised concern that due to Regional budget limitations, these costs will be pushed back to Brigades. CFA’s advice to these concerns is that Brigades should go through the Chain of Command and ultimately to Assistant Chief Officers who hold oversight of the Regions.
40 KPH Speed Limits
VFBV continues to advocate for a 40 kph speed limit for vehicles passing any stationary emergency service vehicle displaying its red and blue flashing lights.
VFBV has long pointed out that firefighters attending incidents on or near roads are put at a significant health and safety risk by passing vehicles. For many years, we have called for 40 kph speed limits similar to those for roadside workers, along with strong public campaigns to educate motorists on the dangers.
The VFBV/CFA Joint Operations Committee continues to advocate for new road rules that will protect all emergency service personnel when working on the side of roads and has been very pleased with CFA’s renewed support for this long awaited initiative.
Electrical Safety Mobile Props
Despite significant work and progress on the design of an electrical safety mobile trailer prop back in 2014/15 CFA, funding for the prop lapsed and is no longer available, leaving the project completely un-funded.
VFBV is advocating for these mobile props to be fully funded and reprioritised. Electrical Safety and especially skills maintenance for Low Voltage Fuse Removal has been identified as a state-wide gap for quite some time, and the VFBV/CFA Joint Training Committee believes the electrical safety mobile props would significantly improve capability and member access to this vital training and knowledge. The trailers were designed by a working group of subject matter experts drawn from both volunteer and career staff ranks, many of whom were licensed electricians.
VFBV will be seeking support of CFA’s new Operational Training Department in pursuit of these much needed props.
First Aid Training
Delegates on the VFBV/CFA Joint Training Committee say early results from CFA's new First Aid Training arrangements with St John appear to be positive.
There has been great acceptance of the out-of-session course work that cuts down the course duration and allows students to do some of the work at home and in their own time.
Adjustments for postal delays are now being factored into future courses, based on feedback from recent courses.
Travel Reimbursement
After reports of differences in how volunteer travel reimbursements are paid and authorised in different CFA Regions and Districts, the VFBV/CFA Joint Volunteerism Committee has asked CFA to develop a State-wide Business Rule that will standardise and clarify arrangements, and CFA has agreed to progress a policy review.
VFBV’s long held policy is that no volunteer should be out of pocket due to their volunteering. The Committee continues to advocate for improved access to CFA vehicles, including corporate pool vehicles, for travel to training or other CFA related activities. Should an appropriate vehicle not be available, then volunteers should have access to travel reimbursement, which is currently set at $0.72 per km
