The Andrews Labor Government will secure permanent homes for CFA branches in two of Melbourne’s fastest growing outer suburbs.

Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino today announced $7.5 million in funding to acquire land and build permanent, modern fire stations for the Truganina and Wyndham Vale fire brigades.

The funding will be split between the two areas, with $1.5 million put towards the acquisition of land for each site and $2.25 million put towards the development of modern, well equipped stations.

Both CFA branches will now have a permanent base to ensure they have capacity to increase their membership and better protect residents in a growing area.

The new stations will allow each unit to improve response times, enhance fire protection, suppression and education, ease pressure on surrounding brigades and improve the amenities on offer for volunteer firefighters.

Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows the population for Wyndham Vale grew by more than 10,000 between 2014-15, increasing the brigade’s responses to between 350-400 annually. Wyndham’s population is expected to reach more than 420,000 by 2036 – more than double what it is now.

The stations will be completed by June 2019.

Funding for the stations comes from the Labor Government’s Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution Fund, which provides critical funding for infrastructure in Melbourne’s growing outer suburbs, ensuring health, education, public transport and other services grow as these communities do.

Quotes attributable to Deputy Premier James Merlino

“Wyndham Vale Fire Brigade has previously had to operate from a temporary base and that’s just not good enough.”

“We know Melbourne is growing quickly and that is why we are providing funding to ensure our volunteers have the support they need to cope with our unprecedented population growth.”

Quotes attributable Minister for Suburban Development Lily D’Ambrosio

“This is yet another fantastic example of how GAIC funding can be used to benefit the entire community. Earlier this year GAIC helped fund a range of transport projects in Melbourne and now it’s delivering important emergency services infrastructure.”

Quotes attributable to the Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“These permanent fire stations will ensure the Wyndham Vale and Truganina areas receive the improved fire services they need for their growing population, and be best equipped to protect residents.”