Palaszczuk Government announces major boost to SES Support Grant

Fire and Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford today marked the start of SES Week with a major, one-off boost to an emergency services funding program.

Mr Crawford said the Palaszczuk Government had more than tripled its SES Support Grant from $320,000 to $1 million.

“I’m delighted to announce this funding boost during SES Week, which recognises members for their dedication and outstanding contribution to Queensland,” he said.

“The grant, previously the SES Non-recurrent Grant, is primarily for SES facility upgrades, vehicles and minor improvements, and is open to SES groups and local governments in support of SES.

“The weekend’s wild weather across south east Queensland is further proof of just how essential our SES services are, with more than 150 tasks recorded.”

Mr Crawford said SES Week was an opportunity to raise awareness of the work of SES staff and volunteers, particularly after the severe storms in the past fortnight.

“We are no strangers to natural disasters, with an average of nearly five tropical cyclones a year, and this month alone there have been more than 500 calls for SES help in the wake of storms,” he said.

QFES Commissioner Katarina Carroll praised SES members for their commitment to helping Queenslanders during disasters and emergencies.

“It’s through the hard work and outstanding efforts of staff and volunteers that the SES continues to be a dependable and valuable service,” Ms Carroll said.

“Since July, SES personnel in Queensland have given about 100,000 hours of service in their roles, with many of those dedicated to training.”

NRMA Insurance Executive General Manager, Safer Communities, Ramana James said the insurer would use the week to celebrate its partnership with the SES.

“We are a proud principal partner of the SES and we’re committed to supporting volunteers and helping Queenslanders be prepared for severe weather,” he said.

For more information about becoming an SES volunteer, visit www.ses.qld.gov.au.

MEDIA: Bernadette Condren 0417 296 116