WA Gov’t: Record number of emergency service fuel cards help power volunteering efforts

• 870 volunteer groups across Western Australia to benefit from $1000 fuel cards
• Fuel cards will be distributed from this week

A record number of emergency service volunteer brigades, groups and units will be rewarded for their service this year with an emergency services fuel card.

From this week, 870 cards preloaded with $1,000 will be sent out across the State to volunteer groups.

The State Government’s Emergency Services Volunteer Fuel Card Scheme is now in its seventh year, and aids volunteers with their travel and transport expenses.

The card is available to volunteer firefighting, State Emergency Service, Marine Rescue and St John Ambulance brigades, groups and units.

Regional volunteer groups are set to receive 788 of the cards which assist emergency services personnel who may need to travel long distances in personal vehicles.

The process has been streamlined so eligible volunteers no longer need to make applications for the cards, which will be automatically issued.

For more information about volunteering, visit http://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/volunteering

Comments attributed to Emergency Services Minister Reece Whitby:

“It is wonderful to see a record number of brigades, groups and units accessing the Volunteer Fuel Card Scheme this financial year.

“From speaking with volunteers, I know they are driven by a desire to help the community, but these cards will provide some assistance as they go about their duties.

“These volunteers play a vital role in protecting the community, and this is a symbol of thanks from the State Government in recognition of their hard work.”