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Earlier this month, the Victorian Liberal/National parties announced the commencement of community consultation to engage directly with CFA volunteers and other key stakeholders in the development of its fire service policies.
As part of this broad consultation, they are establishing an independent CFA Advisory Committee chaired by the former counsel assisting the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission and Ex-Supreme Court Judge the honourable Jack Rush QC.
The independent panel will provide recommendations on future policy informed by consultation with volunteers and extensive experience within Victoria’s emergency services. VFBV has been invited to nominate three suitably qualified and experienced CFA volunteers to participate on the independent panel.
Current members of the panel include:
Jack Rush QC, former Supreme Court Judge and Counsel assisting the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission
Craig Lapsley PSM, former Victorian Emergency Management Commissioner
John Peberdy, former member and acting-chair of the CFA Board
Ev Duke, former member of the SES board
Adam Barnett, Chief Executive Officer of Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV)
In accepting the invitation to participate, the VFBV Board has noted that the panel is independent, all members are participating in a voluntary basis, and the panel sits outside any formal or established political or party frameworks ensuring its independence.
VFBV is apolitical and encourages bipartisanship on all matters involving the fire services. This means on matters that involve legislation and policy we strive to work with all parties and all sides of politics to represent the views, concerns, and aspirations of CFA volunteers. In much the same manner that VFBV participates in Government sponsored panels, committees and working parties, VFBV will consult with any parties that wish to support CFA and CFA volunteers. Our obligation under the Volunteer Charter is to act as the elected representatives of CFA volunteers on all matters which may impact upon them, and this includes future policy development. We have communicated with every sitting Member of Parliament several times this year already.
We are now seeking applications from any CFA volunteer who feels they could positively contribute to the independent advisory committee.
Applications need not be lengthy but should include a current resume (or half page bio), a summary of your CFA experience and achievements that will help you contribute, and a brief letter outlining:
- Rough estimate of the size and reach of your consultative networks
- How you inform yourself of broader CFA volunteer views outside your immediate Brigade
- A brief summary of key issues and topics you feel the Committee should consider
- And any further information you feel is relevant
Applications should be addressed to:
VFBV
C/- Nominations Panel
9/24 Lakeside Drive
Burwood East VIC 3151
Or via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Applications will close on the 15 January 2020.
