NSW Cuts Costs for Farm Firefighting Vehicle Registration

Farmers in New South Wales will soon benefit from reduced registration costs for farm vehicles used in bushfire response under a new state government scheme commencing October 7.

The conditional registration initiative targets Farm Firefighting Vehicles (FFVs), enabling their legal use on public roads during emergencies.

The reform follows trials involving over 350 vehicles and introduces a reduced initial registration fee of up to $209, with ongoing annual renewals costing as little as $75 where inspections aren't required.

NSWs Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said the government knows that in many regional areas, farmers are often the first on scene at bushfires and this change is about ensuring farmers and other road users are safe when they respond to bushfire emergencies.

The vehicles must be inspected, carry fixed firefighting equipment, and can only be used within designated distances during emergencies.

NSW RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin welcomed the timing, saying, “with most of the state entering the Bush Fire Danger Period today, this reform comes at a crucial time".

Eligible landholders can apply in-person at Service NSW centres, with full details available on the Service NSW website.