Likely SES funding boost in 2007-08 Budget

THE SES will get an additional $6 million in the State Budget after complaints about inadequate training and equipment. The Sunday Telegraph understands the SES budget will be increased to a total $57.6 million, 12 per cent higher than in 2006-07.

Government sources confirmed the funding increase would include a 300 per cent increase in the annual SES vehicle fund and more money for training. There would also be money for the construction and renovation of SES headquarters. Emergency Services Minister Nathan Rees yesterday wouldn't confirm the increase but said he was seeking more money for the SES.

The SES Volunteers Association yesterday issued a desperate plea for more funding, claiming it is only a matter of time before a worker is injured or killed. The Sunday TeIegraph can reveal several major SES branches receive as little as $27 per person to cover annual training costs.

The service is so cash strapped that it has even scrapped refreshments at branch meetings because they can't afford tea and coffee.

It claimed volunteers are putting their lives at risk with virtually no training and crumbling resources.
SES Volunteers Association president David Lane said it was only a matter of time before an untrained volunteer was injured or killed. "And when - God forbid - something happens, we'll be criticised in the Coroner's Court."

Opposition emergency services Spokesman Anthony Roberts said the tight budget Was putting lives at risk.