FIREFIGHTERS WARN OF FLEET CRISIS AHEAD OF VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE SEASON

The United Firefighters Union is warning Victoria’s firefighting fleet is facing an immediate crisis, with recent documents showing 60 Fire Rescue Victoria appliances are currently unavailable for operational service.

The union says the unavailable vehicles include heavy pumpers, aerial appliances and specialist trucks, with faults ranging from failed pumps and water leaks to electrical, engine, suspension and structural problems.

Some appliances are expected to remain off the road into September, while others have no confirmed return-to-service date.

The union says the figure represents almost one-third of the FRV fleet, as Victoria heads towards another bushfire season.

UFU Secretary Peter Marshall says the number of unavailable appliances highlights failures in fleet planning, maintenance and investment.

He says firefighters need replacement trucks on the road now, rather than a long-term fleet plan.

The union has also criticised FRV’s plan to move towards a 50-50 split between electric and liquid-fuel fire trucks by 2045.

The UFU supports evaluating new technology but says it should not distract from the immediate shortage of operational appliances.

The union says electric trucks may have a role in the future, but repairing and replacing ageing vehicles must remain the priority.