Victoria's Fire Authority Gets Highest Funding in 5 Years

After weeks of political finger-pointing over firefighting budgets, new figures show Victoria's Country Fire Authority actually received its highest funding in five years.

The CFA's 2024-25 annual report reveals the service got $361.3 million in state government grants last year, up more than $20 million from the previous year. That's the most funding the volunteer firefighting organization has seen since 2020.

The report landed in parliament during a heated debate about whether the government cut CFA funding. Opposition politicians had claimed the service was being shortchanged, pointing to years when grant funding decreased between 2021 and 2024.

Premier Jacinta Allan defended her government's record, insisting funding levels never dropped. Emergency Services Minister Vicki Ward called the opposition's accusations "mischief making."

The truth turned out more complicated than either side suggested. While grant funding did fall for three consecutive years, it bounced back strongly in 2024-25. Total income for the CFA reached $477.4 million last year, higher than the previous two years.

The Bright Side

The funding increase comes when Victoria needs its firefighters most. The CFA responded to devastating fires across the state earlier this month, demonstrating why adequate funding matters for keeping communities safe.

The restored funding levels should help address some volunteer concerns about aging equipment and vehicles. Many firefighters had spoken out about needing better gear and trucks to do their jobs safely.

The government also backed down on controversial tax plans that would have charged farmers higher levies to fund emergency services. After pushback from rural communities, officials watered down those proposals.

CFA Chief Executive Greg Leach acknowledged the tax controversy in the report, noting the organization advocated on behalf of volunteers to improve the funding approach. The commitment to listening shows government willingness to adjust course when communities speak up.

The numbers prove that even during budget pressures and political disputes, support for essential services can grow when people demand it.