Victoria Deputy Premier Peter Ryan

Victoria Minister for Bushfire Response Peter Ryan

Vic Coalition Launches Firefighter Exchange Program

Victor P Taffa

Firefighters from the Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB) and the Country Fire Authority (CFA) will swap places as part of an innovative pilot training scheme announced by the Victorian Coalition Government.

Speaking at the Rural Press Club in Melbourne today, Deputy Premier and Minister for Bushfire Response Peter Ryan said the MFB-CFA Secondment Program would play a key role in supporting interoperability between Victoria’s fire agencies.

“Under the program six MFB and six CFA firefighters will swap places for up to two years, giving participants the opportunity to experience different firefighting situations and environments.” Mr. Ryan said.

“It will also help develop a culture of knowledge-sharing and cooperation between agencies, which supports the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission recommendation that agencies train and prepare for major incidents together.”

Mr. Ryan said fire agencies had embraced the opportunity to develop the pilot program with the support of the United Firefighters Union.

“The MFB and CFA signed an agreement for the pilot and expressions of interest were accepted for those wanting to take on the challenge and it are great to see this new scheme get underway.” Mr. Ryan said.

Mr. Ryan said Victoria was moving towards an ‘all hazards, all agencies’ approach to emergency management.

“We have also recently completed eight multi-agency training exercises that have tested government, emergency broadcasters, communities and emergency services in simulated fire scenarios.” Mr. Ryan said.

Mr. Ryan said Fire Action Week was an important campaign to remind Victorians that they must be aware of potential fire risks during the fire season.

“Everyone who lives, works or holidays in areas of bushfire risk need to know the potential fire risks around them, prepare their properties and have a clear fire plan.” Mr. Ryan said.

“Victoria is one of the most bushfire-prone places in the world, and people need to take responsibility for their communities and themselves.”