Budget Boost for Queensland Fire and Rescue Service

Queensland’s fire and rescue services will receive a major boost with increased funding of $397.9 million under the 2008-09 State Budget.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts said funding for the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) would increase by $37.7 million to $397.9 million in 2008-09.

“The Budget is a record investment in our capacity to respond to fire, road accident, swift-water rescue and other hazardous incidents,” Mr Roberts said.

“Significantly, the Budget allocates funding for 30 new and replacement urban fire and rescue vehicles expanding the fleet to 486 vehicles. It follows 31 new appliances funded last year.”

Mr Roberts said in addition to new vehicles, $20.9 million has been allocated for the QFRS will start or complete three new fire stations and 11 replacement or redeveloped facilities, including the Queensland Combined Emergency Services Academy.

“Three new fire stations will be built at Redland Bay, Burpengary and Nerang. Stations will be built at Pullenvale and Kippa-Ring to replace existing stations at Kenmore and Redcliffe respectively.”

“The replacement and redeveloped stations and centres are at Southport, Nambour and Woodridge, while replacement auxiliary fire and rescue stations are at Goondiwindi, Bollon, Tin Can Bay, Malanda and Yungaburra.”

3 June 2008
Media contact: Kirby Anderson 3247 8194 or 0418 197 350