25 September 2018
The McGowan Government has let down emergency services personnel once again, after failing to support a review into emergency services training.
Nationals WA spokesperson for emergency services Colin de Grussa moved a motion in Parliament last week calling on the State Government to review emergency services training.
The motion called for the provision of nationally accredited and recognised training in WA that is developed in consultation with each of the volunteer emergency service associations.
Mr de Grussa said he and his Nationals colleagues had been meeting with emergency services groups across the State over the last several months.
He said a common theme raised by members were concerns that the current training model did not adequately recognise prior learning and volunteers were finding it difficult to access.
“Most of our emergency services personnel are volunteers and it’s so important that we are providing them with appropriate, up-to-date training in the regions they live and work in,” Mr de Grussa said.
“Numerous volunteers have spoken to me about their frustrations with the current system and some emergency services units are concerned that the current rigid programme and lack of accessibility is stopping people from getting involved.
“Volunteers across bushfire response, marine rescue and state emergency services have raised their concerns with me.”
During debate, Stephen Dawson MLC, representing the Minister for Emergency Services, said some training modules were currently being reviewed.
“I was pleased to hear there was a review of some sort happening into how training is delivered, however, it was disappointing that Minister Dawson just read a Department prepared response and refused to acknowledge the issue,” Mr de Grussa said.
“I believe that the time is right for the Government to conduct a sweeping review into the current training model, consult with volunteers and develop more streamlined and practical training.”
