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Agility and Resilience
By Adam Barnett, VFBV Chief Executive Officer
I want to acknowledge the incredibly difficult and challenging period we are all working through. Without a moment to catch our breath following this year’s busy Fire Season, we now find ourselves navigating an extremely complex and challenging pandemic. COVID-19 will continue to challenge us and test both our resilience and that of our communities.
Unsurprising – our brigades have stepped up and have again proven themselves to be highly effective and agile. I commend you all on the amazing work done at the local level to activate emergency plans and protocols that are maintaining emergency response continuity to our communities.
A state level Pandemic Management Team has been established within CFA and is operating similar to an IMT, coordinating state level response, communications and planning. CFA and VFBV have activated the same working protocols we use during periods of high operational activity, and are working very closely together to share and leverage off the incredible knowledge and experience that sits within both organisations to help navigate the difficult pathways ahead.
With things moving so quickly, and the need to monitor both State and Commonwealth responses, I want to recognise the difficult and dynamic environment that we all find ourselves operating in. And while I know that some would like a little more detail or specific instructions/protocols to help guide brigade planning, I urge you all to have confidence in yourselves, your abilities and your training.
The reality is, this challenge puts every single one of our brigades on the ‘fireground’, responding to the needs of each of our own communities and dealing with an incident that is impacting directly on each and every-one of our members, both from a CFA perspective as well as a personal one.
Through our brigades – we are ready and prepared to give our all - working together with a very stressed and anxious community. No one knows your local patch and community better than you do. No one knows your members and their unique and diverse situations better than you do. No one will be able to adapt quicker and more effectively than you can. Back yourselves, your judgement and each other.
I have every confidence that you will use your very best endeavours to adapt and respond to the upcoming challenges as best we can. The strength of our systems and model is that our brigades represent the very best of over 1200 Victorian communities across the State. We have unparalleled reach and connection with our communities, their needs and how to keep them safe.
Use your local knowledge and experience to best adapt to the situation at hand. Be guided by your knowledge and experience and approach the challenge with the same calm and professionalism that we are renowned for.
You are vital and respected leaders within your communities. During these periods of uncertainty when many citizens are feeling scared, anxious and isolated - they are looking to you for leadership and assurance. I have every confidence that you and your Brigade will continue to be a beacon of hope and calm - just as we are during campaign fires.
Please take time to prioritise your mental health and wellbeing and keep an eye on those around you. Each of us will respond differently to the current situation, so its important we don’t approach it like a one size fits all.
All peer and welfare services are running as normal, 24-hours a day. The CFA Wellbeing Support line is 1800 959 232. A new confidential opt-in ‘check-in’ service has also been initiated whereby members can sign up to receive regular scheduled phone calls from a peer, chaplain or wellbeing team member. This service can be used for a social chat, or if you need to talk more deeply about the challenges you are facing.
You can register for this service via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by calling (03) 9262 8939.
Welfare Fund
Priority has been given to maintaining business continuity and operations of our Welfare Fund. All processes and systems to deal with applications remain in place and are operating as normal. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the Welfare Fund secretary is preferred (rather than phone) but phone options remain available via (03) 9886 1141.
VFBV Support Officers can assist with any initial enquiries or questions on process as well, and we have procedures in place to triage member enquiries. The Welfare Fund is also aiding members experiencing hardship to assist them register for other government support and assistance. We are tracking all Commonwealth and State relief packages to support impacted members connect with all options available.
Fire Impacted Areas
It is incredibly important that members in fire impacted communities do not feel forgotten or abandoned. I am committed to ensuring support for fire impacted communities continue, and we will stand by fire impacted communities for as long as it takes. On behalf of VFBV, I commit to every brigade, group or member in these communities that we will continue to support you and walk the long road of recovery together, every step of the way. Our support for you and these recovery activities will not waiver.
Impact assessments can continue to be sent in and logged, with our work to identify members impacted by this season’s bushfires continuing. VFBV Support Officer Michelle Ryan (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) is coordinating this work in the North East Region, and Colin Booth (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) for the South East Region. While our working bee’s and recovery taskforces have had to be suspended for now – they will resume as soon as it is safe to do so.
District Council Support
State Council has approved streamlined processes to enable District Councils to continue supporting brigades and groups at the local level. Care is being taken to ensure the focus is on brigade/group operational response and logistics.
District Council executive members are being supported to keep regular contact with their brigades and groups to monitor any areas they need assistance with. Regular contact between the District Council leadership group and the local CFA management is ensuring any local issues raised by brigades can be quickly acted on and resolved at the local level.
Priority is being given to resolve any issues brigades or groups may be experiencing with accessing appropriate protective equipment and supplies. Ordering systems remain in place and stock levels are being constantly monitored. Orders should be placed and processed through the State Logistics Center as normal. Procedures to protect supply are in place, and you are requested to only order what you need.
Please work to resolve any issues at the local level first and escalate to your local District Council if you require any assistance.
Thank-you
Thank-you for the continued work you are doing in keeping our communities safe.
These are extraordinary times and will require us all to work together and support each other as we navigate the challenging road ahead. Never forget that we are well prepared and have a very robust and resilient operational response model in place. Each time our collective efforts have been tested - we have always risen to the challenge.
My hope is that just like in previous times, when we look back on this period and our response to it – that it will be remembered as a period of compassion, agility, fortitude and resilience.
A special thank-you to all members who in their other non-CFA roles continue to work within the health sector. Thank-you also to each of you contributing to essential roles like transport, logistics, and customer service/sales. There are too many sectors to mention – but we are indebted to you all.
Never forget that when we all work together, we are capable of so many extraordinary things. Don’t lose sight of the tremendous ‘good’ that you are responsible for generating and putting into our communities. Stand tall, be kind to one another and keep your heads up.
Please stay safe, take care of yourselves and each other.
COVID-19 Resources
VFBV have created two landing pages on our website for members to access summary information with links to the source material.
Operational and health information can be found on this page. This article also includes a log of Operational Guidance notes issued by CFA with links to the CFA members area for each.
The second page summarises the current financial support and assistance resources available.
VFBV will be making every effort to keep these pages up to date with current information.
CFA have also created a landing page within the members area of Brigades Online which can be accessed here.
16/17 Year Old's
The deadline for submissions has been extended, with a new closing date set for 15 May 2020.
Members are requested to discuss and make submission on whether the minimum age for operational activities should be changed or if there are further steps that can be taken to protect and improve the safety of children participating in CFA activities.
Information on how to make a submission can be found on the VFBV website, or by contacting your local State Councillor, VFBV Support Officer or District Council Executive member.
Federal and State Inquiries
On the 6th April, State Council has requested that both the Federal and State bushfire inquiries that were established earlier this year extend the period available for volunteers to make submission.
With this year’s debriefing and after-action reviews significantly impacted by COVID-19, there is little opportunity or chance for CFA members to genuinely respond to the terms of reference.
With submissions for both inquiries closing shortly after Easter (April 15 for the Victorian Inquiry and April 17 for the Federal Inquiry) State Council is urging a little common sense and respect for those who have not had a second to catch their breath from this year’s fire season.
Update: 9th April 2020: Both inquiries have made a short extension to their submission closing timelines. The new closing dates for submission for each are:
Federal - closing date of Tuesday 28th April 2020
State - closing date of Thursday 30th April 2020
For more information see the VFBV website.
Fire Wise - Message from the Managing Editor
Due to current restrictions impacting on our print house, Fire Wise will not print April edition but instead upload this to the website for free viewing to all – www.fire-wise.com.au
I apologise to all for any inconvenience but hope you understand this is beyond our control.
It is planned to return to normal printing and distribution for May edition.
Thank you for your continued support.
Regards
Gordon King
Managing Editor – Fire Wise
Tel: 0402 051 412
Championship Cancellation
Following the ban of mass gatherings in response to COVID-19, members were advised on the 13th March that this year’s State Championships had been cancelled.
Commencing in 1873, the State Competitions have enjoyed a very long and proud history which pre-dates our Federation and even predates Australia’s first Test Cricket match by four years! Highlighting the historic nature of this year’s cancellation – the State Competitions have only ever previously been cancelled during the war years of the first world war and second world war.
VFBV would like to recognise the impact this decision makes not only on our own people, but on the host city of Mooroopna in particular. In recognition of these impacts, VFBV has requested CFA approval to conduct the 2021 and 2022 State Championships in Mooroopna.
Appreciation and gratitude are extended to all members of our Competition Committee’s and the Mooroopna Host Committee who have together toiled extremely hard over the last 18 months to prepare for what was to be an historic celebration of our Urban and Rural competitions. With the next two successive championships to be held in Mooroopna much of that work will not be lost.
Thank-you to all competing brigades, competitors, coaches, organisers, sponsors and supporters for your understanding and cooperation as arrangements of the cancellation were progressed. The State Championships signify one of the earliest times in Victorian history that volunteer fie brigades united as one, and we look forward to continuing that tradition in the years ahead.
Protective Face Masks
VFBV delegates to the State PPC/E Committee have requested CFA establish a working party to review all scientific and research literature on protective face masks for use during bushfire firefighting.
In recognition that there are still many unknowns and a lack of consistency across fire services across Australian jurisdictions in this space, VFBV has requested that a multi-state working party be established. The intent would be to invite other States and Territories to consider becoming involved and sharing resources to investigate and consider the available evidence. VFBV is aware of a number of services who have conducted limited field evaluations on alternate products.
VFBV State Council has recommended a collaborative and multi-faceted approach to ensure all health and safety factors are considered. CFA Health and Occupational specialists have long cautioned on the widespread replacement of the current P2 masks without first investigating the available evidence, warning that there are complex interactions that first need to be tested and understood first. For example, concern has been raised that higher rated masks may increase the risks to firefighter’s cardiovascular system as the body needs to work harder and compensate for more laboured breathing as is frequently experienced with non-positive pressure masks.
CFA has indicated support to this approach and will work with the committee to progress. We will keep members apprised of progress.
Cancer Claims
VFBV continues productive discussions with WorkSafe on how to streamline and simplify how volunteer firefighters apply for compensation under the new presumptive legislation scheme. In recognition that this is the first time many volunteers will be accessing a WorkSafe scheme, the work cover authority has agreed to progress in collaboration with VFBV new documentation and guides to assist volunteers with the application process and completion of the required forms.
Any volunteers who are considering making application under presumptive legislation are encouraged to contact a VFBV State Councillor, Support Officer or the VFBV Welfare Fund Secretary on (03) 9886 1141 prior to making application. We can assist you understand the paperwork and process while these hard-fought improvements are yet to be implemented.
Driving Strategy
VFBV delegates to the Joint Training Committee have reported positive progress on changes being progressed under CFA’s Driving Strategy.
VFBV recently met with the CFA State Driving Coordinator as part of the consultation process to discuss and workshop a strategy that will essentially result in a more streamlined and consistent approach to heavy vehicle licencing; safer driving both on-road and off-road; and a more flexible delivery of CFA driving legislation and policy.
VFBV continues to advocate strongly for volunteers to be engaged, with particular emphasis and priority on supporting volunteer trainers and assessors to be empowered and supported with delivery.
Fire Services Reform
VFBV continues to strongly advocate for volunteer engagement and consultation throughout the Governments Fire Services Reform implementation.
With many consultative processes being directly impacted by COVID-19 arrangements it will be essential that decisions either be delayed, or new processes put in place to ensure volunteers continue to be genuinely engaged and consulted.
Examples of priorities being pursued by VFBV have been to request brigade and volunteer consultation on the development of asset allocation statements; the inclusion of an appeal process prior to Ministerial signoff; a tenancy agreement for co-located brigades to clarify and protect volunteer access to amenities and shared area’s and dispute resolution; volunteer consultation on any changes proposed to the response or operating model; the CFA/FRV secondment model; the Fire District Review Panel; the Implementation Monitor and Plan; and a volunteer support and respect package to strengthen and enhance the support provided to volunteers during the changes to protect Victoria’s essential volunteer surge capacity.
Progress and response to these requests have been found wanting. Members will need to continue to monitor for any volunteer impacts (intended or otherwise) and escalate as required.
VFBV will continue to monitor progress and continue to highlight concerns as they become apparent.
16/17 Year Old Members Survey - Closing Date Extension
Written by VFBV
As members would be aware, the submission survey commenced in December 2019. Due to the high level of operational activity over the fire season, the closing date for submissions has again been extended to Friday 15 May 2020.
State Council has supported a request from District Council #9 to investigate and obtain the views of members on the continued use of 16-and-17-year old’s as operational members.
Members can access the template/survey from the bottom of this page under Downloads, or an online version is available from: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/16and17YearOldMembers
Background
For the purposes of the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005 a child is defined as any person under the age of 18 years.
Current CFA policy is that the minimum age for a member to be approved as an operational member and attend fires and incidents is 16 years of age. These members require parental consent to be documented during their application process.
CFA SOP 6.02 includes the following considerations:
- 16-and-17-year old members must be endorsed by the Brigade OIC to undertake operational activities
- An adult crew member other than the Incident Controller or Crew Leader must be designated as an ‘authorised accompanying operational firefighter’ for every two 16-and-17-year old crew members
- A maximum of two 16-and-17-year old members may be allocated per appliance at any given time
- When an incident response involves the serious injury or fatality of a person(s), the Authorised Accompanying Operational Firefighter must take all reasonable steps to shield the 16-and-17-year old CFA member(s) from potentially traumatic situations.
CFA released an updated Operations Bulletin in May 2019 (Operations Bulletin 008/2018 v2) which includes:
- CFA is obliged to meet a range of legislative requirements focused on keeping children safe within the organisation. These include:
- the Victorian Government Child Safe Standards mandated under the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005;
- the statutory duty of care imposed by the Wrongs Amendment (Organisational Child Abuse) Act 2017 (Vic);
- the obligations of CFA as per the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004
- Discouraging the turning out of 16-and-17-year old’s to potentially traumatic situations when attending a fire or other incident as a member of our Brigades through exercising operational discretion, and
- Prohibiting the turning out of 16-and-17-year old members at long haul strike teams
Recent Statistics
Preliminary CFA analysis on the activity of 16-and-17-year old members found:
- There is approx. 589 members who are currently aged between 16-and-17-year’s of age
- Approx 196 of those are classified as ‘operational’
- Over the least two years, 143 have recorded responding to actual operational activity
Consultation
While a formal CFA future position is not known at this time, CFA has informally indicated it is very likely to be reviewing it position in the future. To assist with early discussions, State Council has agreed to commence preliminary consultation with members to inform the development of a future VFBV position. Feedback will also inform early discussions with CFA and assist with preliminary VFBV advocacy should CFA choose to formally seek VFBV’s views on a future review.
Brigades, Groups and members are encouraged to discuss at their local District Council meetings, and all members including juniors, parents, fellow brigade members and leaders are encouraged to consider making submission so that all perspectives can be understood and considered.
To help members provide structured feedback and/or submission, the following template has been developed to guide submission. Members are not required to use this template and may submit opinion and/or feedback in any other written form. However – use of this template will assist VFBV collate and identify common themes.
Timeline
The closing date for the survey has been extended to Friday 15 May 2020 due to the high level of operational activity over the fire season.
State Council will review an consider feedback to the survey later in the year.
Please note: All personal identifying information will be removed from State level analysis and no identifying information will be provided to CFA or any other entity. All submissions will be treated as private and de-identified for analysis, with only trend, and general geographic summaries (such as District and Region) provided in results.
On the 6th April, State Council requested that both the Federal and State bushfire inquiries that were established earlier this year extend the period available for volunteers to make submission.
With this year’s debriefing and after-action reviews significantly impacted by COVID-19, there is little opportunity or chance for CFA members to genuinely respond to the terms of reference.
With submissions for both enquiries closing shortly after Easter (April 15 for the Victorian Enquiry and April 17 for the Federal Enquiry) State Council is urging a little common sense and respect for those who have not had a second to catch their breath from this year’s fire season.
Update: 9th April 2020: Both inquiries have made a short extension to their submission closing timelines. The new closing dates for submission for each are:
Federal - closing date of Tuesday 28th April 2020
State - closing date of Thursday 30th April 2020
Federal Inquiry
The Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements was established on 20 February 2020 in response to the extreme bushfire season of 2019-20 which resulted in loss of life, property and wildlife and environmental destruction.
Sometimes referred to as the ‘Bushfires Royal Commission’, the Commission will examine coordination, preparedness for, response to and recovery from disasters as well as improving resilience and adapting to changing climatic conditions and mitigating the impact of natural disasters. The inquiry will also consider the legal framework for Commonwealth involvement in responding to national emergencies.
Terms of Reference are located here: https://naturaldisaster.royalcommission.gov.au/about/terms-reference
Submissions can be made via here: https://naturaldisaster.royalcommission.gov.au/submissions
Summary of Terms of Reference
- the responsibilities of, and coordination between, the Commonwealth and State, Territory and local Governments relating to preparedness for, response to, resilience to, and recovery from, natural disasters, and what should be done to improve these arrangements, including with respect to resource sharing;
- Australia’s arrangements for improving resilience and adapting to changing climatic conditions, what actions should be taken to mitigate the impacts of natural disasters, and whether accountability for natural disaster risk management, preparedness, resilience and recovery should be enhanced, including through a nationally consistent accountability and reporting framework and national standards;
- whether changes are needed to Australia’s legal framework for the involvement of the Commonwealth in responding to national emergencies, including in relation to the following:
- thresholds for, and any obstacles to, State or Territory requests for Commonwealth assistance;
- whether the Commonwealth Government should have the power to declare a state of national emergency;
- how any such national declaration would interact with State and Territory emergency management frameworks;
- whether, in the circumstances of such a national declaration, the Commonwealth Government should have clearer authority to take action (including, but without limitation, through the deployment of the Australian Defence Force) in the national interest;
- any relevant matter reasonably incidental to a matter referred to in paragraphs (a) to (c).
State Inquiry
On 14 January 2020 the government announced an inquiry into the 2019-2020 Victorian fire season would be conducted by the Inspector-General for Emergency Management (IGEM).
Through this Inquiry, IGEM will examine Victoria’s preparedness for the fire season, response to fires in large parts of Victoria's North East, Gippsland, and Alpine regions, and will review relief and recovery efforts.
Terms of Reference are located here: https://www.igem.vic.gov.au/Fire-Season-Inquiry
Submissions can be made via here: https://www.igem.vic.gov.au/Fire-Season-Inquiry
Summary of Terms of Reference
Phase 1: Matters for consideration:
- Effectiveness of emergency management command and control and accountability arrangements in Victoria.
- Effectiveness of Victoria’s operational response to the 2019-20 fire season.
- Review of the effectiveness of the declaration of a state of disaster under the Emergency Management Act 1986 – including the appropriateness of supporting legislative and administrative processes, communication, and community compliance.
- State evacuation planning and preparedness processes/practices and their effectiveness with an emphasis on remote/isolated communities and Victorian peak holiday season locations.
- The timeliness and effectiveness of activation of Commonwealth assistance, and Commonwealth resource availability
- Preparedness ahead of the 2019-20 fire season; including the effectiveness of regional emergency management work undertaken to inform and educate the community about the coming season, community engagement, impact of lengthening fire seasons, and any relevant legislation, policy and practice.
- Consider all challenges and implications for bushfire preparedness arising from increasingly longer and more severe bushfire seasons as a result of climate change.
- In the context of bushfire preparedness, assess the readiness and responsibilities of statutory agencies, Local Government and State Government bodies.
- Review of all opportunities and approaches to bushfire preparedness, including different methods of fuel and land management (for example ‘cool burning’, mechanical slashing, integrated forest management, traditional fire approaches) to protect life and property as well as ecological and cultural values.
- Consideration of the effectiveness of Victoria’s Code Red day arrangements and their application in practice.
- In considering effectiveness of Victoria’s operational response to the 2019-20 fire season, IGEM should particularly consider:
- effectiveness of the State’s response priorities, including primacy of life
- effectiveness of public information and warning systems, including cross-border coordination and communication
- impact of increasingly longer fire seasons on the ability to prepare, deploy and sustain efforts directed towards emergency events in Victoria
- impact of providing Victorian responder officers to other Australian jurisdictions to assist with emergency events (as early as September 2019 this summer season)
- availability and utilisation of private assets and resources (including plant equipment) to support emergency preparedness and response
- planning and response mechanisms to protect biodiversity threatened by bushfire
- effectiveness of the existing workforce model to support response, relief and recovery.
- Review support available to staff and volunteers in terms of mental health and wellbeing.
- Consideration of the adequacy of existing administrative and funding mechanisms in place at a state level to support the operational response efforts.
- In considering the timeliness and effectiveness of activation of Commonwealth assistance, and Commonwealth resource availability, IGEM should particularly consider:
- effectiveness of current national resource sharing arrangements when multiple and simultaneous fire events are occurring
- effectiveness of existing governance arrangements supporting access to Commonwealth and State air fleets
- use and integration of Australian Defence Force assets into Victoria’s emergency response and relief operations.
Information concerning financial support and recovery assistance is very dynamic and frequently being updated. Below is a snapshot of current resources available to assist with member enquiries. We will continue to monitor and update as new information comes to hand.
Health Information - including restrictions and operational guidance can be found via this article: https://vfbv.com.au/index.php/component/k2/item/784-covid-19
Updated 9th April 2020 to include updated information on Job Keeper payment; small business; land tax and childcare.
Loss of employment
If you’ve lost employment or income you can apply for JobSeeker Payment (Formerly Newstart) which is $565 per fortnight for people who are single and without children. The rate varies if you have a partner or dependents. Visit: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/jobseeker-payment
If you’re able to receive JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance, Austudy, Abstudy Parenting Payment, Farm Household Allowance or Special Benefit an additional $565 will be paid each fortnight from 27 April for at least six months.
The government has temporarily expanded eligibility for the JobSeeker and Youth Allowance payments, meaning you may be eligible if you are:
- A permanent employee who has been stood down or lost your job
- A sole trader, self-employed, a casual or contract worker whose income has reduced
- Caring for someone who’s affected by COVID-19.
Sole traders and casual workers who are currently making less than $1,075 a fortnight will be eligible to receive the full supplement.
If you are already receiving one of the above welfare payments, you do not need to do anything. Services Australia will automatically pay the Coronavirus Supplement to eligible recipients from April 27.
Visit: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/news/more-financial-support-coronavirus-affected-job-seekers for further information.
Job Keeper Payment
Businesses impacted by the Coronavirus will be able to access a wage subsidy from the Government to continue paying their employees. Affected employers will be able to claim a fortnightly payment of $1,500 per eligible employee from 30 March 2020, for a maximum of 6 months. Eligible employees will receive a minimum of $1,500 per fortnight, before tax. It will be up to the employer if they want to pay superannuation on any additional wage paid because of JobKeeper Payments.
If you ordinarily receive $1,500 or more in income per fortnight before tax, you will continue to receive your regular income according to the prevailing workplace arrangements. The JobKeeper Payments will subsidise part or all of your income.
- If you ordinarily receive less than $1,500 in income per fortnight before tax, your employer must pay you, at a minimum, $1,500 per fortnight, before tax.
- If you have been stood down, your employer must pay you, at a minimum, $1,500 per fortnight, before tax.
- If you were employed on 1 March 2020, subsequently ceased employment and then were re-engaged by the same eligible employer, you will receive, at a minimum, $1,500 per fortnight, before tax.
- Are at least 16 years of age.
- Are an Australian citizen, the holder of a permanent visa, a protected special category visa, a non-protected special category visa who has been residing continually in Australia for 10 years or more, or a New Zealander on a special category (subclass 444) visa
- Your partner earns less than $79,762
Payment will begin in May and will be backdated to 30 March
Visit: https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/jobkeeper
Household assistance
Two $750 payments will be made to anyone receiving government payments including family tax benefit or is a Commonwealth Senior Card holder. The first payment, will made from 31 March and the second payment, from 13 July.
Pensioners
The deeming rates, which are used for the pension income assessment, will be reduced by another 0.25 percentage points to reflect the latest rate reductions by the Reserve Bank of Australia. Beginning in early May, the lower deeming rate will be 0.25 per cent and the upper deeming rate will be 2.25 per cent.
Small businesses and not-for-profits.
Small businesses and NFPs with employees and a turnover under $50 million will receive a tax-free cash payment of up to $100,000 to help them keep staff and continue operations. This will generally be based on the previous financial year’s income.
Assistance is also available for businesses to make investments, write-off assets and to support apprentices & trainees.
For further information on how this will be paid and your eligibility visit: https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/businesses
The Victorian State Government has announced a relief package for businesses that includes changes to payroll tax, hardship payments and grants to industries badly impacted or affected by the state’s shutdown rules.
For More information visit: https://www.sro.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
Land tax deferral
Land owners due to pay 2020 land tax that have at least one non-residential property and total taxable landholdings below $1 million have the option of deferring their 2020 land tax payment until after 31 December 2020.
The State Revenue Office will contact all taxpayers who are eligible for this deferral.
Superannuation
individuals financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to access $10,000 of their super this financial year, and another $10,000 next financial year.
This withdrawal will be tax-free, and will have no baring on your current Centrelink payments.
From mid-April 2020, eligible individuals will be able to apply online through www.my.gov.au to access up to $10,000 of their superannuation before July 1, 2020. They will also be able to access up to a further $10,000 from July 1, 2020, for approximately three months.
To be eligible, you must satisfy one or more of the following requirements:
- You are unemployed
- You are eligible to receive a job seeker payment, youth allowance for jobseekers, parenting payment, special benefit or farm household allowance
- On or after January 1, 2020, either:
You were made redundant
Your working hours were reduced by 20 per cent or more
If you are a sole trader, your business was suspended or there was a reduction in your turnover of 20 per cent or more.
Childcare
On 2 April 2020, the Australian Government announced the new Early Childhood Education and Care Relief Package. From Monday 6 April 2020 weekly payments will be made directly to early childhood education and care services in lieu of the Child Care Subsidy and the Additional Child Care Subsidy, to help them keep their doors open and employees in their jobs.
Payments will be made until 28 June 2020 and families will not be charged fees during this time. These payments will complement the JobKeeper Payment announced by the Prime Minister on 30 March 2020. Early childhood education and child care services do not need to apply for the payments, they will be paid automatically.
Financial Counselling
Financial counsellors are professionals, regulated by federal legislation and employed by not for profit community organisations. They provide information, advice and advocacy support free of charge, assisting people in dealing with life situations involving debt and hardship, dealing with creditors, and stabilising finances. The National Debt Helpline is staffed by financial counsellors and can be contacted on 1800 007 007
Free financial counselling services can be found at:
https://ndh.org.au/ - National Debt Helpline – 1800 007 007
https://www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/drought/assistance/rural-financial-counselling-service - Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) - 1800 900 090
https://www.financialcounsellingaustralia.org.au/ - Financial Counselling Australia – (03) 8554 6979
VFBV Welfare Fund
Operating since 1913, the Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria welfare Fund provides fast small grants to CFA volunteers, long serving former volunteers and their families, who are experiencing significant financial hardship. Typical cases involve prolonged illness, bereavement, loss of earnings, or the accommodation and travel costs associated with supporting a relative in hospital.
The Welfare Fund is run under Australian Tax Office rules, independently audited, and grant decisions are made by a committee of long serving CFA volunteers. The Fund has helped close to 1,200 volunteers, with more than $1.8 million in grants made over the years.
Under Australian Taxation rules, the fund is required to assess an applicant is in 'necessitous circumstances', and therefor the fund is required to conduct a financial assessment of each applicants situation which is contained within the application form. One on one support is available to assist members and brigades with this process, and all applications are strictly confidential to protect the dignity and privacy of the individual.
In addition to the normal grant process, and during the current pandemic, the Welfare Fund is also providing personal support and assistance with the linking of members with available financial support and assistance. Providing current and up-to-date information on available grants and personal support with applying and arranging for grant payments. The fund is also supporting members with any expenses not covered by existing Government support to best assist members getting back on their feet.
The VFBV Welfare Fund is:
- Available to all members and long serving ex-members and their families of subscribing Brigades
- Contact the VFBV Welfare Fund Secretary on (03) 9886 1141 or your VFBV Support Officer or State Councillor to discuss eligibility and application process.
Member Welfare and Support
Support services are available to provide you additional support:
| CFA WELLBEING SUPPORT LINE |
|
1800 959 232 Providing CFA members and their immediate family access to 24 hour support 7 days a week. |
| Psychologists – Counsellors – Peer Support - Chaplains |
Lifeline: 13 11 14 - provides crisis support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 - to talk with a trained mental health professional.
These resources are being regularly updated as revised information becomes available. (Updated: 11/09/2020 to include new updates from CFA. | Updated: 11/08/2020 to include new updates from CFA and Stage 4 restrictions. | 14/07/2020 to include newer updates sent. | Updated: 09/04/2020 to include newer updates sent. | Updated: 31/03/2020 - with Stage 3 Restrictions)
Information on Financial Support and Resources can be found separately by clicking here.
Coronavirus hotline
If you suspect you may have the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) call the dedicated hotline on 1800-675-398 – open 24 hours, 7 days.
There is also a national information helpline on 1800 020 080
Federal (Commonwealth) Updates
This site is regularly updated to give you the latest Coronavirus news, updates and advice from government agencies across Australia: https://www.australia.gov.au/
Victorian Updates
The Department of Health and Human Services provides an authoritative source of information, updates and advice about the outbreak of coronavirus disease can be found here. This page includes information on current restrictions, and information sheets outlining the facts, symptoms, resources and advice.
https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
CFA Wellbeing Support
CFA Wellbeing Support Line: 1800 959 232. More resources from CFA in relation to wellbeing can be found on Brigades Online: https://www.members.cfa.vic.gov.au/mycfa/Show?pageId=MentalHealth
CFA Resources
The landing page for all CFA updates and resources can be found in the members area of Brigades Online. You can access it here: https://www.members.cfa.vic.gov.au/mycfa/Show?pageId=covid19
Information available includes:
Chief Officers Statement of Intent
Guidance notes and work instructions
Please refer to the following Operations Bulletins and Guidance notes:
For advice on Brigade procedures and best practices please refer to Guidance Note 006 and Guidance Note 012 v2 which includes:
- Dual cab appliances only 4 members, single cab appliances only 2 members
- Only primary appliances to be turned out to incidents (unless further assistance is requested)
- Other members who arrive at station are to remain in their cars until the all clear for further assistance is communicated
- If members enter the station they must sign in and record their temperature
- Appliance manning rosters
- Face to face training and meetings to be cancelled - see Poster - Volunteer Training: Can I? Can't I?
- Unless you are specifically required all members are to avoid attendance at the station.
Updates on Brigades Online
More Detailed Resources
Links to the following are contained in the resources above, but have been specifically separated out below to provide easier searching.
Face coverings: whole of Victoria
02 August 2020
All Victorians must wear a face covering when they leave home, no matter where they live. There are number of lawful excuses for not wearing a face covering. More information about face coverings can be found here: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/face-coverings-covid-19
Stage 4 Restrictions for Metropolitan Melbourne
02 August 2020
From 6pm Sunday 2 August for people living in metropolitan Melbourne, Stage 4 restrictions now apply.
These restrictions include:
- A curfew is in place between the hours of 8pm until 5am. This means that you must be at your home during these hours. The only reasons to leave home between 8pm and 5am will be work, medical care and care giving.
- The four reasons that you can leave home remain, but further limitations are now in place for:
- shopping for food and other essential items
- exercise (applies to outdoor exercise, and with only one other person)
- Caregiving, for compassionate reasons or to seek medical treatment also remains a permitted reasons to leave home.
- As much as you can, you must stay at home. When you leave home, you must use a face covering, unless you have a lawful reason for not doing so.
More information about Stage 4 restrictions for Metropolitan Melbourne can be found on the Department of Health and Human Services website here: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/stage-4-restrictions-covid-19
Victorian Stage 3 Restrictions
05 August 2020
Stage 3 Restrictions for Regional Victoria and Mitchell Shire came into effect from 11:59pm on Wednesday 5 August 2020.
There are only four reasons to that you can leave home:
- to shop for food and necessary goods or services
- to provide care, for compassionate reasons or to seek medical treatment
- to exercise or for outdoor recreation
- for work or education, if you can't do it from home.
You must wear a face covering when you leave home.
Visit https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/stage-3-restrictions-covid-19 to find out what restrictions are in place.
The New South Wales border is closed. Victorian residents require a permit to enter New South Wales.
The South Australian border is also closed. From Wednesday 29 July 2020, only essential travellers are about to enter South Australia from Victoria.
08 July 2020
Stage 3 Restrictions - stay at home are in place for Metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire, with other areas of Victoria subject to Stay Safe restrictions.
Visit https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/victorias-restriction-levels-covid-19 to find out what restrictions are in place in your area.
07 April 2020
Victoria's Chief Health Officer, Doctor Brett Sutton, has issued new directions to take effect from midnight 7 April 2020. The new directions include changes to restricted activities, stay at home provisions for childcare and measures to include access restrictions to additional residential care services.
Visit https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/state-emergency for further detail on restrictions relating to:
State of Emergency
Area Directions
Detention Directions
Stay at Home (Restricted Areas)
Stay at Home Directions (Non-Melbourne)
Restricted Activity (Restricted Areas)
Restricted Activity (Non-Melbourne)
Permitted Worker and Childcare Permit Scheme directions
Workplace Directions
Workplace (Additional Industry Obligations) Directions
Care facilities
Direction and Detention notice
Diagnosed persons and close contacts
Hospital visitors
Revocation of airport arrivals and cruise ship directions
State critical infrastructure projects
https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/state-emergency
Full details can be found here: https://www.vic.gov.au/coronavirusresponse
10am, 31 March 2020
As agreed by National Cabinet, gatherings are now restricted to no more than 2 people except for members of your immediate household and for work or education.
Under the Stage 3 restrictions, the new directions mean that what was previously advice about staying home is now enforceable.
Playgrounds, skate parks and outdoor gyms are now closed.
These Stage 3 restrictions came into effect at 11:59pm Monday 30 March 2020. They will be in place for 4 weeks and reviewed as required.
If people breach these directions, they face on-the-spot fines of $1,652 for individuals and $9,913 for businesses. Larger fines can also be issued through the courts.
We’re also telling Victorians – there are only 4 reasons to be out:
- shopping for what you need - food and essential supplies
- medical, care or compassionate needs
- exercise in compliance with the public gathering requirements
- work and study if you can’t work or learn remotely
As we deal with this health crisis, we know that for many Victorians it’s an economic crisis as well.
That’s why a moratorium on evictions will be introduced for the next 6 months for residential and commercial tenants who are experiencing financial distress due to the impact of coronavirus. This will apply across all states and territories.
Department of Health (Vic) Daily Updates
https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19-daily-update
Federal Government Fact Sheets
https://www.health.gov.au/resources/collections/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-resources
Consumer Affairs
Provides useful information regarding:
- Tenants
- Evictions
- Incorporated Associations
- Financial Obligations
- Coronavirus scams
The following member communique was sent to members on Saturday 14th March 2020:
Dear Members,
As many would be aware, CFA announced last night that the State Championships to be held in Mooroopna on the 28th and 29th of this month (March) has been cancelled. This follows the Commonwealth Governments announcement yesterday afternoon that in response to COVID-19 that mass gatherings of more than 500 people should not go ahead.
Our State Council Executive met today, and agreed that while we will explore any and every opportunity to reschedule later in the year, the reality is the prospect of a rescheduled competition being possible is very remote. COVID-19 still has a long way to go yet, and many sporting bodies seasons are likely to be interrupted or extended which will leave very little opportunities for rescheduling remaining. For this reason we don’t wish to give false hope, and the feeling of the Competition Committees and State Council Executive is there is unlikely to be another opportunity, so it is very likely there will be no State Championship held this year, and we will need to put our sights on next year’s competition, which will again be held in Mooroopna.
I want to acknowledge the disappointment that many of you will be feeling. Being part of a very large, iconic organisation like CFA brings with it a responsibility, and one that frequently calls upon us to make a sacrifice. We all share that responsibility to put our communities first and do our part to ensure we set a good example, and focus on the difficult periods ahead. Our brigades, groups, competitors, judges, officials, competition committee’s and the local host committee have put more than 12 months preparation into what was going to be a fantastic celebration of our Urban and Rural Competitions and the fantastic spirit of CFA. That work will not be lost, and how we handle this unavoidable set back will also be a demonstration of the pride and community spirit we carry and will always have for our communities safety.
Please also understand that this decision not only impacts on us, but there is significant impact on the Greater City of Shepparton that was to host this years competition, as well as many local traders, sponsors and partner organisations that were all looking forward to this historic event.
Work has been underway to respectfully and diligently make the appropriate arrangements to advise these organisations. On Monday, we will be personally contacting all competing brigades and groups who have entered, in case any have not been advised via electronic means. We will also provide a refund of any and all entry fees for any brigade or group that has made payment.
We are intending to hold further discussions with CFA over the coming weeks, and will do our best to support and assist any brigade or group that has trouble getting any accommodation refunds or finds themselves out of pocket. Could we please request that as Brigades/groups work through these logistics that you keep in mind that for many of these local organisations they too will be experiencing financial loss as a result. So please be polite and calm, and we’ll calmly work through the various arrangements and issues as they arise. We are committed to supporting you as best we can.
Thank-you to all members who play an active role in supporting the Championships, whether as an organiser or a competitor. On behalf of VFBV and State Council, please allow me to convey how terribly sorry we all are that this has occurred, and we share your disappointment. As it is still very early days, there are still many arrangements that are unfolding, and we’ll keep members updated as changes occur.
Stay safe, and keep your heads up.
Response to recovery
By Adam Barnett, VFBV Chief Executive Officer
Two significant milestones were reached over the last two weeks. On the 19th February, after 90 days of sustained activity – the Tambo complex fire was declared contained. Just eight days later and following 98 days of active fire activity - the Snowy complex fire was also declared contained on the 27th February.
Incredibly, this marks the first time during the current fire season that Victorian fire crews are not responding to broad acre out of control fires. Despite many hundreds of local personnel (including international and defence force crews) remaining deployed managing contained fires and new starts, these events signal what is hopefully a permanent downward trend in the current fire season.
And while there is still much work ahead of us, I want to echo the many heartfelt well wishes that are coming from many grateful and humbled Victorians. The tireless and selfless efforts of so many of you and our fellow emergency service partners over what has been such a prolonged period of high operational activity is most deserving of praise and thanks. Your commitment to your communities and public safety is exemplary.
As operational tempo begins to fall, our efforts and priority will continue to swing to recovery operations.
As I explain to others, this is one of the key areas that differentiate emergency management volunteers and is part of what makes you so special.
Not only are you amongst the first ones moving into communities during periods of response but long after the fire front has passed - you are also amongst the ones remaining in these communities to lead and support the sustained recovery operations that are needed to help rebuild those very same communities impacted.
In this vein, there are two important initiatives I want to highlight this month. The first is the joint recovery task force that is being formed by VFBV District Councils 8 and 13 (see page 6 of this edition).
This initiative is being led by VFBV State Councillor Bill Watson AFSM and is modelled on the recovery task forces we assembled following Black Saturday back in 2009.
The task force will be deploying over the coming months to undertake community- based recovery projects in areas recently affected by this season’s fires and will also target any CFA volunteers whose own properties have been impacted. The task force will only deploy by invitation from a local community, brigade, resident or member and priority will be given to supporting local communities by ensuring any additional resourcing, tools or equipment required is drawn from local businesses, thereby boosting and supporting the local economy.
The activities undertaken will be unglamorous but of great import and benefit to local communities, members and residents.
It will involve tough and exhausting work, mostly conducted over weekends and the aim is for the task force to be as self-sufficient as possible with self-catering and camp style accommodation. Tasks chosen are aimed to cover cracks left by insurance and government support and picking up those areas in between; it might be felling trees and cutting them up, general maintenance, fencing, clearing up and other jobs not covered by insurance. It’s about helping fellow community members, firefighters and others in their time of need and helping them move on.
Expressions of interest are being sought for experienced and endorsed chainsaw operators, drivers and safety officers, as well as labourers, able bodied helpers and personnel willing to assist. Members are encouraged to discuss their involvement with their Captains and BMTs prior to committing and all personnel must be current CFA members.
CFA is supporting the task force and arrangements and I want to recognise and thank them for supporting this initiative. These kinds of initiatives are often a little outside the box and can sometimes challenge our process and systems and I want to congratulate the local CFA management for enthusiastically getting behind it and supporting a fantastic community based and focussed initiative.
Bill is coordinating resources being drawn from District 8 and VFBV State Councillor Rod Stebbing is the lead for District 13.
If you’d like to help, please contact an executive member from either District Council 8 or 13 or visit the VFBV website for further details.
The second initiative I want to highlight is to remind members that we are ramping up our efforts to identify any CFA volunteers who have lost their homes, stock, fencing, outbuildings, machinery or anything else that will impact on that members livelihood.
Connecting members up with grants and recovery services is a priority as well as topping up or providing additional grants to bridge any gaps from our welfare fund or our volunteer support and recovery trust. If you have been impacted, or you know someone who has been, please get in touch with your local VFBV Support Officer or District Council as soon as possible so we can assist you immediately.
Experience tells us – many of those affected will not self report, so we need your help. This is one of the rare times I will ask members to put their selflessness to one side, and please reach out or encourage someone else to. Disbursement of grants requires careful planning and management and we don’t want anyone to miss out simply because they were too proud to ask for help.
Please, if you were impacted or you know a fellow member who was – please contact VFBV Support Officer Michelle Ryan if you are from the North East Region, or VFBV Support Officer Colin Booth if you are from the South East Region.
We need an accurate register of impacted members so that the Trustees of our VFBV Volunteer Support and Recovery Trust (formerly known as the Black Saturday Trust) & our Welfare Fund can assess demand and make arrangements for appropriate disbursement and fund raising.
The Trust alone has distributed more than $880,000 to CFA members and their families since Black Saturday and is just one way we can continue to support those members who have been directly impacted.
Stay safe, rest when you can and continue looking out for one another. You are all doing incredible work.
16/17 year old operational firefighters
The deadline for submissions has been extended, with a new closing date set for 15 May 2020.
With the law classifying any member under the age of 18 as a child, members are requested to discuss and make submission on whether the minimum age for operational activities should be changed or if there are further steps that can be taken to protect and improve the safety of children participating in CFA activities.
Brigades, Groups and members are encouraged to discuss at their local District Council meetings, and all members including juniors, parents, fellow brigade members and leaders are encouraged to consider making submission so that all perspectives can be understood and considered.
Information on how to make a submission can be found on the VFBV website, or by contacting your local State Councillor, VFBV Support Officer or District Council Executive member.
State Championship Under 18's
CFA requires all parents and guardians of any person under the age of 18 who is competing in this year’s State Championships to provide parental consent and supply relevant personal and medical information of their child, utilising the secure online platform CareMonkey.
Parents and Guardians of any member under 18-years-old participating should have been sent a link by CFA via email which will take them to the required CareMonkey online form to complete.
Simply click on the link, create a profile (if you don’t have one already) and fill out the form. FAQs are available on Brigades Online.
If you have not received the link please contact CFA via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ASAP.
Harvey wins State Urban Junior title
Harvey from WA won the Grand Aggregate title at the 2020 State Urban Junior Championship at Horsham recently, in the closest finish at a Junior state for many years.
At the start of the final event, Melton’s A team were in the lead by one point on 56 points to Harvey second on 55 points - but Harvey took out third placing in this event, giving them the lead on 58 points in the Grand Aggregate. Close behind was Melton A with 56 points, and Melton B with 46 points.
VFBV congratulates Horsham Brigade and its Championship Committee on hosting a very successful Junior Championship, and thanks the Brigade members for their work and efforts and for their commitment to host the Junior State Championship again next year at Horsham. We also pass on our appreciation to the Horsham Rural City Council for their support to the Horsham Brigade and the Junior Championships.
The Championship was well attended, with an estimated 2,000 people attending and 61 entered teams from across the state including 12 junior competitors from Harvey WA, with well over 400 junior members competing in total.
We look forward now to the State Urban Senior Championship events, and the State Rural Championship Senior & Junior events, at Mooroopna on the weekend of 28th & 29th March 2020 – which will see a combined event of Rural and Urban events conducted on their own traditional tracks alongside each other for the first time in history.
The weekend will be an exciting showcase of competitions and of CFA to the community, and we encourage all members to attend whether as a spectator, team supporter, competitor or just to see and participate in the great variety of CFA activities that will be available, or see the spectacular Torchlight Procession on the Saturday evening, with Brigades marching around Victoria Park Lake Shepparton in an impressive display of CFA. Any queries in taking part in events or the Torchlight Procession can be directed to the VFBV office on 9886 1141.
Full results of the 2020 State Urban Junior Championship can be found on the VFBV website or in the March 2020 edition of Fire Wise.
Below: the victorious Harvey team
Stawell Club Fundraiser
Following this year’s significant bushfires, the Stawell Club had a special fundraising effort and generously offered to donate the funds raised to VFBV’s Volunteer Support & Recovery Trust Fund to assist CFA volunteers impacted by the bushfires.
At the Official Opening of the State Junior Championship at Horsham, President Russell Jones and Secretary Barry Sertori of the Stawell Club, presented a cheque for $13,800 to VFBV CEO Adam Barnett.
VFBV’s Volunteer Support & Recovery Trust Fund (formerly the Black Saturday Trust Fund) was initially established in 2009 following the Black Saturday fires to provide assistance to CFA volunteers who had suffered loss.
The Trust Fund was established to respond to significant natural disasters impacting on CFA volunteers. It provides swift monetary grants to assist members recover from loss of home, loss of outbuildings, fencing, stock, livelihood and any other impacts resulting from large scale natural disasters.
VFBV covers all administration fees, and 100% of funds received are used for the payment of volunteer grants. Members of the public are invited to donate via VFBV’s website.
VFBV passed on its thanks and appreciation to the Stawell Club for its generous donation, which will be used directly in assisting our volunteers who have suffered losses following the recent bushfires.
Below: Pictured is President Russell Jones and Secretary Barry Sertori of the Stawell Club, presenting VFBV CEO Adam Barnett with a cheque for VFBV’s Volunteer Support & Recovery Trust Fund.
Workwear tender announced
In welcome news, the long-awaited tender for Volunteer Workwear was announced by CFA on 21 February 2020. Tender responses are due via the Victorian Government procurement website Tenders VIC and close on 1 April 2020.
The VFBV working party met with CFA representatives on 22 February to view updated prototypes and discuss next steps. It is hoped that final prototype garments will be available for public display to the membership at the State Championships in Mooroopna later this month.
This is an exciting development, and we look forward to seeing this project enter its final phases to deliver a high-quality functional garment that has evolved considerably over time based on direct member feedback and consultation.
Thank-you to all members who participated through the member surveys and assisted with the considerable advocacy that has been required to push this project along. It is expected the tender will be finalised by the end of July and distribution to follow shortly thereafter.
International Women's Day
Sunday March 8 is International Women’s Day, and Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria wish to recognise the women who contribute so much to VFBV, CFA, Emergency Services and their communities.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2020 is “Each for Equal” where an equal world is an enabled world. Collectively we can actively choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women’s achievements. Collectively each person can contribute to creating a gender equal world.
With more almost 12,000 female CFA volunteers there is plenty to celebrate. To all the fabulous, dedicated, highly skilled and much appreciated women in CFA and across the fire services, thank you for today and every day.
Let’s work together and encourage women as CFA members and together we can all make a difference.
About International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is celebrated each year on March 8, with the first International Women’s Day gathering occurring in 1911.
International Women’s Day is a global day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.
Seeking Expressions of Interest - Combined District 8 and District 13 Recovery Task Force
Written by VFBV
VFBV District Council 8 in conjunction with VFBV District Council 13 is working to assist recovery efforts for fire impacted communities in Eastern and North-eastern Victoria. Over the coming weeks, and possibly months, we will be deploying vehicles and equipment to undertake community-based recovery projects in areas recently affected by this season’s fires.
Each Task Force will be conducted as an approved CFA operational activity and to this end we are seeking expressions of interest from brigades and individuals who may have time available to participate. Details of the mostly weekend deployments will be determined in advance and teams selected will be briefed accordingly prior to departure.
As a combined effort between VFBV District Council's 8 and 13 brigades and groups, we require experienced and endorsed chainsaw operators, drivers and safety officers. Labourers, able bodied helpers and personnel to assist with catering and base camp style accommodation are also needed. Fit and able firefighters with specialised skills in fencing and light excavator work are strongly encouraged to apply. The aim of the task force is to be self-sufficient for the period of each deployment.
Please discuss your participation prior to applying, with your brigade Captain and Brigade Management Team. This is a CFA approved activity so all operational conditions and SOPs apply.
Please register your interest, skills and contact details with either one of the following:
District 8
VFBV State Councillor William (Bill) Watson, Wonthaggi Fire Brigade
(03) 5672 4731 or 0417 494 253
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
District 13
VFBV State Councillor Rod Stebbing, Monbulk Fire Brigade
(03) 9756 7735 or 0417 362 255
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
MEDIA RELEASE - VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS JOIN FORCES TO HELP FIRE VICTIMS
Volunteers firefighters are banding together to help their fellow volunteers and other Victorian communities impacted by the summer’s disastrous bushfires.
The volunteers are forming a task force to carry out weekend recovery projects in eastern and north-eastern areas, with the main focus on volunteers who have lost homes and other property.
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) state councillors Wonthaggi firefighter Bill Watson and Monbulk firefighter Rod Stebbing, who are organising the task force, said it showed another side of the work done by CFA volunteers.
“Volunteers are running this for volunteers,” Mr Watson said. “We were there to battle the fires but we’re all part of the same community and this is a great way to follow-up and help people in a tangible, hands-on way.
“Our main priority is volunteer firefighters but we won’t exclude anyone; If we’re doing a job and see a neighbour who needs help then we’ll help them.
“A number of Victorian volunteer firefighters lost homes and other property in the fires. Along with their respective brigades we will support them wherever we can.
The task force will be divided into separate teams to help in the recovery process and to facilitate multiple tasks at one time.
Mr Watson said the task force aimed to cover cracks left by insurance and government support. “We’ll pick up those areas in between; it might be felling trees and cutting them up, general maintenance, fencing, clearing up and other jobs not covered by insurance.
“It’s about helping fellow firefighters and others in their time of need and helping them move on.”
Ms Watson was involved in a similar recovery program after Black Saturday and said the work had been greatly appreciated. “We removed dead trees, installed fencing and general cleaning ups. We have also worked on flood recovery projects, standing up farmers’ fences after tons of stubble washed onto fences and held them down.”
More volunteers are being recruited, particularly those able to help with heavy labour and with skills such as using a chainsaw.
The first project will be dedicated to the memory of Don Bigham, a former member of the Gruyere Fire Brigade who Mr Watson described as a great humanitarian who supported previous efforts with time and personal equipment.
The task force is being coordinated by VFBV volunteers in Districts 8 and 13, covering Mornington Peninsula to Wonthaggi and Gembrook and District 13 covers Knox and Warrandyte to Warburton and Dandenong Ranges. it is an approved CFA operational activity.
People can register their interest with Mr Watson on 5672 4731, 0417 494 253 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or Mr Stebbing on 9756 7735, 0417 362 255 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Sunday March 8 is International Women’s Day, and Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria wish to recognise the women who contribute so much to VFBV, CFA, Emergency Services and their communities.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2020 is “Each for Equal” where an equal world is an enabled world. Collectively we can actively choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women’s achievements. Collectively each person can contribute to creating a gender equal world.
With more almost 12,000 female CFA volunteers there is plenty to celebrate. To all the fabulous, dedicated, highly skilled and much appreciated women in CFA and across the fire services, thank you for today and every day.
Let’s work together and encourage women as CFA members and together we can all make a difference.
About International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is celebrated each year on March 8, with the first International Women’s Day gathering occurring in 1911.
International Women’s Day is a global day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.
Final results for the 2020 State Urban Junior Championships held in Horsham on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 February 2020 are now available.
Grand Aggregate Results:
2020 Champion Team - Harvey A
Harvey A coaches are John Wellington and Ethan Harding, and competitors:
1. Brodie Hewer
2. James Hewer
3. Benjamin Martella
4. Daniel Martella
5. Stockden Ottrey
6. Eshean Rojo
7. Kyden Toop
8. Cam Wellington
Full results from each event and photo's of presentations can be found on VFBV's dedicated Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Volunteer-Fire-Brigades-Victoria-Championships-451309545285820/
More...
The 2020 State Urban Junior Championships will be held this coming Saturday and Sunday, 22nd and 23rd February 2020 in Horsham.
Come and see tomorrow’s CFA volunteers proudly demonstrate their skills. If you are not involved with the CFA juniors program or haven’t witnessed the value the State Junior Championship provide young volunteers to develop practical skills and to be actively involved in CFA, then get along and be inspired.
Urban junior competitions have a proud 47-year history, with the 2020 Championship attracting 61 teams including 2 teams travelling over to compete from Western Australia. For more information about the history of the Championships is available here.
The 2020 Championship are being held at:
BJ Reither Track
Park Drive, Horsham
Results from the Championship will be progressively posted over the weekend on VFBV’s dedicated Championships Facebook Page.
VFBV delegates and officials are working with affected Brigades to access support available through the VFBV Welfare Fund. With the large number of members directly impacted, we are expecting high demand.
About
CFA Volunteer Fireifghter's devote their time to help others but sometimes can find themselves in difficult financial crisis. Unforseen emergencies such as loss of work, family illness &/or death, accidental injury or even drought, can place significant financial burden on volunteers. The fund has been established to assist in ensuring the ongoing health and welfare of Volunteer members and their families experiencing significant financial hardship.
How will the funds be used?
Support the ongoing health and welfare of Country Fire Authority Volunteer members, past members and their dependants, experiencing personal financial hardship/crisis by providing welfare grants, on a needs assessed basis, that may assist in alleviating stresses impacting on the individual's ability to maintain their involvement as a Volunteer.
The fund works as a capital fund and provides small welfare grants, on a needs basis, that may assist in alleviating stresses impacting on the individuals' ability to maintain their involvement as a volunteer. The funds provides assistance to: Members, their Families and eligible past members.
History
The Fund began its long history of helping volunteers in need in 1913, when it was first established by urban volunteers as the VUFBA Welfare Fund.
On 1 November 2008, the newly formed Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria, with generous support from the Victorian Government, launched the VFBV Welfare Fund and extended that offer of support to all CFA volunteers.
Over the years, the Fund has helped close to 1,200 volunteers, with more than $1.8 million in grants, and today more than 1,000 CFA Brigades subscribe to the Fund each year.
For the 2018/2019 financial year, the VFBV Welfare Fund distributed a total of $96,735 to assist 30 volunteers in need.
The Fund offers small grants to CFA volunteers, long serving former volunteers and their families, who are experiencing significant financial hardship. Typical cases involve prolonged illness, bereavement, loss of earnings, or the accommodation and travel costs associated with supporting a relative in hospital.
The Welfare Fund is run under Australian Tax Office rules, independently audited, uses only State Government approved investments, and the welfare grant and investment decisions are made by a committee of long serving CFA volunteers.
Investments are managed to provide an enduring fund that has existed since 1913 and ensures volunteers now and in the future are protected by fund income that outperforms inflation and minimises annual brigade subscriptions for each member brigade.
To subscribe to the Welfare Fund, Brigades must be affiliated with VFBV, which covers the operating costs so that 100% of any money the Fund receives is used entirely to help volunteers in need.
Donate
People wishing to donate to the Welfare Fund they can do so by:
Online donations can be done via GiveNow: https://www.givenow.com.au/vfbv
Or Direct Deposits can be sent to the following account:
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Account Name: |
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria Welfare Fund |
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Account Number: |
135 312 478 |
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BSB Number: |
633 000 |
If you email details of your deposit to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. a receipt can be arranged.
Volunteer Time is Priceless
By Adam Barnett, VFBV Chief Executive Officer
The anniversary of February 7 2009 stands as a stark reminder that our fire season still has a way to go yet. Each year we pause and reflect on the 173 precious citizens who were tragically lost during those fires.
The anniversary is a reminder of our collective promises to them and all fellow Victorian’s that we will do everything we can to ensure our communities are best prepared for future disasters.
In the words of the Bushfires Royal Commission’s final report “The lives of many Victorians were changed forever, and many showed they are capable of deeds of great courage and compassion. Although some communities were physically destroyed, their members also displayed ingenuity, strength and resolve in the face of this calamity.”
While public and media attention to this year’s fires have started to wane, the fact is we still have a lot of fire in the landscape and will for some time. As at writing, Victoria has seven going bushfires, two contained and 48 under control, with a total area burnt so far this season currently more than 1.5 million hectares.
And while we are only potentially halfway through the Fire Season, I want to continue my call for everyone to keep looking out for one another and to ensure our commitments are sustainable. If you are over committed and things are getting on top of you – please talk to someone ASAP.
If you or your Brigade keep getting approached for deployment, unless someone has said something – the system is likely to just keep tapping you until something is said. One of my priorities following this season will be to speak with State Council about pulling together some interested vols to think about how we can design some more robust human resource availability and utilisation tracking systems.
As many of the current CFA systems are localised they have the potential to be disjointed. As such it is often very easy to keep hitting the same brigades or groups over and over and lose track of how fairly (or not) the load is being shared across our Statewide network of Brigades. For every brigade that has approached me about over utilisation, another has raised the fact that they haven’t been asked to provide any resources at all.
If this is happening to you, please don’t just suffer in silence. Make contact with your Captain or Group Officer and nudge it up the chain. I have seen some really good planning to try and buddy up Districts so that calls for resources are evenly rotated across Regions, but unless brigades are reporting under or over utilisation issues – some of the micromanagement issues might be being lost.
And when it comes to people’s time – your time - there is no more precious resource, and it must be respected far more than it is now.
Your time is not free, and it is absolutely not worthless. At the risk of sounding like a Mastercard advertisement – every second a volunteer is giving should be treated as if it were priceless. We must ensure line managers and incident management teams respect the time that volunteers are donating to the State – and recognise that many of you are making significant sacrifices in order to deploy.
Sacrifices you make willingly, but none the less your time and sacrifice deserves to be respected and managed well, with full accountabilities and transparency. Volunteer time must be respected and must be managed like the precious resource that it is. And utilisation doesn’t stop at activation.
Ensuring volunteer time is being used for best community effect and benefit. Ensuring crews on deployment have meaningful roles that are well planned, communicated and understood by all crews. Ensuring briefings and incident action plans are prepared in advance and delivered to crews on time. Ensuring meals and accommodation are well planned and coordinated. Ensuring travel arrangements are safe and effective and well-coordinated and supported.
These are all important ways to show respect for the incredible volunteer contribution underway.
BUDDY BRIGADES
I would like to encourage brigades to consider buddying up with a brigade from the fire affected areas. This isn’t charity – it’s about reminding brigades that we are all in this together, and no matter how tough it gets, we’ll look after each other and be there during thick and thin. In fact, the information exchange that occurs through buddy brigades from different Districts or Regions can be incredibly rewarding for each.
The concept of buddy brigades has been around for a while and mirrors the concept of cities or towns linking up to create ‘brother/sister’ cities or ‘twin towns.’ This concept was made popular following the second Word War and back then was intended to foster friendship and understanding among different cultures and between former foes to build peace.
In the CFA context it is about brigades linking up with brigades from different areas and fostering some friendship and linkages that extends far beyond traditional connections like group or district. The more diverse the brigade differences the better. Each brigade learns from the other, and you’d be surprised how alike and how different all at the same time each of our brigades can be.
In the current context, it is about partnering with a brigade that may have been heavily impacted by this season’s fires, with a brigade that hasn’t. Brigades can then form a special relationship between them.
What this looks like is completely up to you.
Some run joint training that gives brigades the opportunity to travel and catch up with people from different Districts. Others arrange working bees or exchanges of members for small ‘holidays’ away from home. Some are able to arrange fundraising opportunities that allows a more resource rich brigade to help a smaller more isolated one.
And smaller brigades can share their unique community connections or local produce/ crafts with perhaps more metropolitan brigades that perhaps don’t have those very personal connections that are inherent in smaller and more isolated brigades.
The point is for each brigade to provide something unique that allows each to learn from the other. They are equals and are partners. They are sharing their experience and their community with the other. Maybe it’s only once or twice a year – but it’s the connection that matters.
If you have an interest, discuss it over with your Captain. Captains - pick up the phone and have a chat with a local Group Officer or District Council from a fire affected area and see what you can find. The more organic the matching process is - the better.
But if you run into a complete brick wall, phone the VFBV office or drop us an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we’ll do our best to help you out.
Be creative but also please respect that some brigades are still under very high operational workloads and might just want some space to get through the current season.
MEMBER RECOVERY & WELFARE
VFBV Support Officers and District Councils in the fire affected areas are working to identify any CFA volunteers who have lost their homes, stock, fencing, outbuildings, machinery or anything else that will impact on that members livelihood.
Connecting members up with grants and recovery services is a priority as well as topping up or providing additional grants to bridge any gaps from our welfare fund or our volunteer support and recovery trust. If you have been impacted, or you know someone who has been, please get in touch with your local VFBV Support Officer or District Council as soon as possible so we can assist you immediately.
Stay safe and keep your heads up. Rest when you can, and look out for one another. You are all doing incredible work and we are all so incredibly proud of you all and the amazing role and contribution you are making to your communities.
Fire Wise Quarterly Supplement
February's edition of Fire Wise also contained the latest edition of the VFBV Quarterly Supplement.
The Quarterly Supplement contains 16 pages of important news and updates, and includes links to additional resources and updates that are available via our website.
An electronic copy of the Quarterly Supplement can be downloaded here.
Brigade Captains and Secretaries, Group Officers and Group Secretaries as well as VFBV delegates are requested to please take the time to read this and future editions, and to table at your meetings for the benefit and knowledge of your members.
VFBV District Councils are collecting feedback and leading discussions on several important items for consultation. Brigades and Groups are encouraged to consult and provide feedback to VFBV District Council's as soon as possible.
State Champs Under 18's
CFA and VFBV have worked together to implement a new registration process for any competitor under the age of 18 taking part in this year’s Horsham or Mooroopna State Championships.
CFA will require all parents and guardians of any person under the age of 18 to provide parental consent and supply relevant personal and medical information of their child, utilising the secure online platform CareMonkey.
Parents and Guardians of junior members participating in this year’s State Championships should have been sent a link by CFA via email which will take them to the required online form to complete. Simply click on the link, create a profile (if you don’t have one already) and fill out the form. FAQs are available on Brigades Online. If you have not received the link please contact CFA via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Workwear Tender Delay
VFBV was advised by CFA last year that the tender for the new volunteer workwear was finally due to go to market just prior to Christmas. We have now been advised that this did not occur, and work is underway to release it shortly. We are obviously disappointed with another delay but will keep members apprised of progress and continue to encourage progress.
In other news, CFA has advised that prototypes are due to be completed by the end of this month that will enable them to be displayed at future meetings and events.
16/17 year old operational firefighters
A reminder that the views of members on the continued use of 16- and 17-year old’s as operational members is being sought. With the law classifying any member under the age of 18 as a child, members are requested to discuss and make submission on whether the minimum age for operational activities should be changed or if there are further steps that can be taken to protect and improve the safety of children participating in CFA activities.
Brigades, Groups and members are encouraged to discuss at their local District Council meetings, and all members including juniors, parents, fellow brigade members and leaders are encouraged to consider making submission so that all perspectives can be understood and considered.
Information on how to make a submission can be found on the VFBV website, or by contacting your local State Councillor, VFBV Support Officer or District Council Executive member.
Replacement PPC
A reminder that State Council has resolved a zero-tolerance approach to any members being refused replacement PPC due to budget constraints or other factors.
Any member who has been denied replacement PPC are to log the incident in CFA Safe and approach your local District Council who will then escalate with CFA as a matter of priority.
All operational members are entitled to have PPC that is fit for purpose and in good working condition. When approaching District Council, members are requested to have a record of who has denied the request, and as much date and detail information as possible so that appropriate action can be taken.
Any rejected applications for replacement PPC should be requested in writing, and best endeavour used to escalate internally for resolution first.
In most cases VFBV officials have been able to resolve the issue quickly and at the local level to the satisfaction of the member involved.
Brigade Officers are encouraged to report any instances where members have not been provided appropriate replacement items within reasonable timeframes.
Spirit of CFA Awards
Due to the high level of operational activity the deadline for nominations has again been extended to Sunday 1st March 2020. With some of the incredible stories coming from this year’s fire season, this is a terrific opportunity to recognise those people you think make an incredible contribution to CFA.
More information, the criteria for the awards and the process for nomination can be found at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/spiritofcfa
Reform Update
VFBV issued a News Note Update #3 on the 4th February. This update includes important information on current status of the Governments Fire Services Reform and current areas we are seeking feedback and comment on to help inform VFBV views.
VFBV is also seeking feedback and validation on updated FRV Boundary maps that have been sent to affected brigades. The boundaries should match the current CFA assignment areas of each of CFA’s current integrated brigades. If your Brigade borders a CFA Integrated Brigade and therefore is likely to be impacted by the new FRV boundary, Brigade Captains or Secretaries can contact Mark Dryden (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) for a copy of the proposed map if you haven’t received it. CFA has advised that it has provided maps to all affected brigades.
Our News Note update is available from the VFBV website, or follow the link provided on the cover page of the VFBV Quarterly Supplement that is included with this month’s Fire Wise.
Asbestos Reminder
VFBV has come across instances where members’ PPC, suspected of being contaminated with asbestos, is still being delayed for laundering.
Brigades are reminded that following strong and sustained VFBV advocacy back in 2017, that CFA changed its laundering processes to a more streamlined process that ensures faster turnaround times. Members should refer to Operations Bulletin 004/2017 for details. In essence, all PPC suspected of being contaminated by asbestos should be bagged and tagged correctly as detailed in this bulletin, and then sent immediately to CFA’s new structural PPC laundering contractor (IDS) to be decontaminated and laundered in one process.
There is no need to delay sending PPC until analytical test results confirm the presence of asbestos or not. Each District has its own contractual arrangement to safely courier the gear to the laundry (as TOLL cannot be used for suspected asbestos) and this should be activated through the RDO.
A reminder that Bushfire PPC is not microchipped, so members should ensure their name is on each item of clothing sent for laundry to assist with the matchup process at the end.
CFA 2020 Draft Strategy Brouchure Consultation
CFA has released a draft vision brochure that is intended to refine CFA’s identity following the move to becoming a fully volunteer organisation in July this year.
VFBV encourages members to read the draft, and provide feedback and comment.
Members can access the draft via the CFA member logon portal via: https://www.members.cfa.vic.gov.au/mycfa/Show?pageId=ourCFAstrategy
The Brochure combines CFA's Vision and Mission, its Strategic Goals and the brand and narrative work that has been in development over the past year, into a draft document for discussion.
It has been informed by the many conversations and workshops about CFA's long-term strategy, narrative and brand. CFA is keen to share its thinking and, importantly, get feedback from our people – as this represents our future direction.
Feedback can be made via the above link, with the menu option on the left-hand side when that page opens up. Click on "Provide your Feedback".
If you would prefer to provide feedback via a different mechanism, please feel free to send it though to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we’ll pass it directly on.
2020 State Championships
Urban Juniors – Horsham, 22 and 23 February
Urban Seniors – Mooroopna, 28 and 29 March
Rural Seniors – Mooroopna, 28 March
Rural Juniors – Mooroopna, 29 March
Entry forms for the State Rural Senior and Junior Championships are due by 28th February 2020, and are available from the VFBV website or VFBV office.
Although entries for the State Urban Senior Championships were due 1st December 2019, late entries will be accepted – please contact the VFBV office.
VFBV encourages all Brigades and members to participate - as spectators, team supporters or competitors. There are events for all size teams, from one or two competitors up to eight competitors - and for all ages, genders and abilities.
For Brigades new to competitions needing further information or assistance, please contact your District VFBV Support Officer or the VFBV office.
Emergency Service Women to be acknowledged at Women’s T20 World Cup Final
Written by VFBV
Victoria’s emergency service women will be acknowledged on International Women’s Day at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Final at the MCG, on Sunday 8 March 2020.
A bay at the MCG has been reserved so that people from across the emergency services sector can sit together for this unique opportunity.
Women from the emergency services in Victoria will be acknowledged as part of the pre-game entertainment. Along with entry to the game, Katy Perry will be providing pre-and post-game entertainment which is included in all tickets.
Tickets for seats in the emergency services bay can be booked until 17 February 2020 via this link http://bit.ly/EMSFINAL2020 (this link is specifically for seating in the emergency services bay and can be used by anyone in the sector to book tickets for themselves, friends and family.) Tickets start at $5.00 for children and $20 for adults.
