WA government commits $10.1 million to expand aerial firefighting fleet

The Cook Labor Government has committed an additional $10.1 million to strengthen Western Australia’s aerial firefighting capacity in anticipation of a challenging bushfire season, as reported by the Government of Western Australia.

This investment will include the addition of two Black Hawk helicopters, which will be part of the state’s largest aerial firefighting fleet to date.

These helicopters, capable of carrying up to 4,500 litres of water each, will be operational for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 bushfire seasons.

They will be stationed in strategic locations to the north and south of Perth to provide rapid response to bushfire incidents.

Cardup fire station nearing completion

The new Cardup Career Fire and Rescue Service Station, currently under construction, is expected to be completed by December 2024.

The $14.5 million facility is part of a broader effort to improve emergency response services in Perth’s south-east, which is experiencing significant growth.

Premier Roger Cook said: “The completion of Cardup Fire Station this year and the delivery of additional frontline career personnel is another important milestone for public safety.”

The station will house 36 firefighters and receive three advanced firefighting appliances.

DFES urges bushfire preparedness ahead of early campaign launch

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has launched its annual bushfire safety campaign earlier than usual, reflecting the heightened risk of bushfires this season.

This year, Western Australians are encouraged to make bushfire plans now, with only 1.95% of households having a documented plan despite 93% of the state being bushfire-prone.

Minister for Emergency Services Stephen Dawson urged the public to act: “Making decisions when the heat is on is extremely difficult and dangerous, so don’t leave it too late or you could be putting your family at risk.”

My Bushfire Plan app promoted to aid in emergency planning

The My Bushfire Plan app and website have been highlighted as essential tools to help residents prepare for bushfires.

These resources guide users in creating a bushfire plan, including critical decisions like whether to evacuate early or stay to defend their homes.

DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm emphasised the importance of preparation: “Firefighters can’t be at every home during an emergency, so it’s important that people sit down with their family now, complete a bushfire plan and agree on a course of action.”

Western Australia adds $10.1 million to expand firefighting resources: Summary

The Cook Labor Government has allocated an additional $10.1 million to Western Australia‘s aerial firefighting fleet, ahead of what is expected to be a challenging bushfire season.

Two Black Hawk helicopters, each capable of carrying 4,500 litres of water, will join the state’s firefighting resources for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons.

The new Cardup Career Fire and Rescue Station, set to open in December 2024, will host 36 firefighters and enhance response capabilities in Perth’s south-east.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has launched an early bushfire safety campaign, urging residents to make use of the My Bushfire Plan app to prepare for emergencies.