Opposition calls for volunteer pay-gap funding to address shortfall in regional emergency services

The WA Opposition says the State Government must grant funding for workers’ leave to fill key volunteer roles in regional areas.

Nationals’ Shadow Emergency Services Minister Martin Aldridge MLC says dedicated leave arrangements were needed for emergency service volunteers working in the public sector.

“Regional volunteers have told me they want to see the State Government do more to provide support amidst dwindling numbers, an ageing volunteer demographic, and increased training and administrative demands,” Mr Aldridge said.

“This simple measure, which could easily be accommodated within the State Government’s $5.7 billion budget surplus, would provide greater support and recognition to existing volunteers, and may encourage more public sector workers to take up the call and become volunteers.”

However, Mr Aldridge stopped short of demanding the same reserve funding for private sector employees.