Politics & Council
12 November, 2025
One-size policies don’t fit in the bush
Leigh Harry, CFA Volunteers Group, writes to the editor country fire brigades needing country solutions.
Sir, As Victoria braces for what the CFA warns could be a dangerous fire season, country brigades are preparing for long days, sleepless nights, and tough conditions — often with ageing trucks, limited funding, and growing pressure on volunteers.
Out here in the country, the CFA isn’t just an emergency service — it’s part of the community. We’re the neighbours, farmers, and local workers who train, turn out, and fundraise to keep our towns safe.
But as fire seasons grow longer and conditions worsen, the strain on rural brigades is real. Many still operate with outdated gear, long travel distances for training, and fewer volunteers. We don’t expect special treatment — just a fair go.
One-size-fits-all policies don’t work for the bush. What suits a city brigade doesn’t always fit a farming district where the next truck might be 20+ kilometres away. Country brigades need country solutions — fair funding, modern equipment, and training that matches our reality.
A fair go for country brigades isn’t just about equity — it’s about keeping every Victorian community strong, safe, and ready for what lies ahead.
Leigh Harry
CFA Volunteers Group