Nationals candidate for Central Wheatbelt, Lachlan Hunter has endorsed a bold $136 million plan to make Western Australia a leader in emergency preparedness and response.
The comprehensive plan includes a WA-owned aerial firefighting fleet, substantial support for local government volunteer facilities, and enhanced staffing to protect communities from natural disasters and emergencies.
The Nationals’ $60 million investment will fund the purchase of a WA-owned aerial firefighting fleet, including:
- A C130 Large Air Tanker (LAT)
- A lead plane
- Four Blackhawk helicopters
This fleet will provide a year-round response to bushfires and other disasters, reducing reliance on costly, short-term leases from overseas and interstate, ensuring WA is better prepared for emergencies.
Mr Hunter said the plan would deliver critical support to emergency services group and communities within the Central Wheatbelt.
“The Nationals’ plan will strengthen our ability to protect lives and property during emergencies, especially in bushfire-prone areas throughout the Central Wheatbelt region. It’s about ensuring our communities are safe and our volunteers are supported.”
The Nationals will also allocate $76 million to support local governments, which manage over 90 per cent of WA’s initial fire response, including:
- A $45.5 million one-off payment to clear a backlog of facility upgrades under the Local Government Grants Scheme.
- $2.8 million in annual funding to maintain the scheme’s sustainability.
- $20 million over four years to expand the Community Emergency Service Manager Program, adding 27 new positions to bolster local emergency management.
The Nationals WA have also committed to expanding presumptive PTSD protections to all emergency service volunteers and establishing a standalone WA Recovery and Resilience Agency.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our emergency response, and they deserve modern facilities, adequate staffing, and mental health protections. This plan delivers on those needs.” said Mr Hunter.
