The SES fleet across the state will undergo one of its most significant upgrades thanks to funding included in the 2018 NSW State Budget.
Nearly 500 new vehicles, vessels and trailers will be purchased as part of the $54.6 million dollar program.
Member for Hawkesbury Dominic Perrottet praised the work of volunteers in helping the community at times of greatest need.
“Across the state SES volunteers in orange answer the call for assistance at a moment’s notice and we want to ensure they have the best equipment to do the job required,” Mr Perrottet said.
“They deserve vehicles and equipment that ensures their tasks are performed safely with maximum efficiency and in minimum time.”
Mr Perrottet said while the state-wide fleet renewal program will be rolled out across four years, in the Hawkesbury electorate we will see the benefits in the coming year.
Over the course of the next 12 months the electorate will receive a new flood boat that will assist in emergency evacuations and SES unit transport.
Minister for Emergency Services Troy Grant said that the community can feel confident their NSW SES volunteers will remain well-equipped.
“Our tireless volunteers deserve vehicles and equipment that ensures their lifesaving tasks are performed safely with maximum efficiency and in minimum time,” Mr Grant said.
From 2012-2017 the NSW Government invested $46 million for the procurement, maintenance and control of the 637 strong SES operational vehicle fleet.
This Operational Fleet Replacement Program will continue to replace SES vehicles and also fund the purchase of equipment inventory, marine vessels and trailers.
The funding will enable the provision of 269 vehicles, 124 marine vessels, and 95 trailers. In 2018-19, 77 vehicles, 37 marine vessels and 30 trailers will be delivered.
The NSW SES last year responded to over 32,000 requests for assistance and performed over 750 flood rescues across the state.