Emergency Services

In reply to the Hon. S.G. WADE (19 May 2016).

The Hon. P. MALINAUSKAS (Minister for Police, Minister for Correctional Services, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Road Safety): During my time as Minister for Emergency Services, I have made it a goal of mine to get out and meet as many of our emergency services volunteers as I can. While meeting these volunteers, one thing that has struck me is an overwhelming view that these men and women do not do what they do for financial gain or recognition and only wish to be able to serve and protect their state and the communities they live in.

The view has further been expressed to me that financial incentives have the potential to attract people motivated by things other than service to their community and that this has the potential to erode the spirit of volunteerism within the emergency services sector.

However, there are a number of alternative ways in which the government acknowledges the contribution and commitment shown by emergency service volunteers. Award systems are an initiative in place to recognise the commitment and dedication of emergency service volunteers. There are a number of different types of awards including service medals and ministerial commendations.

The government is also committed to recognising both emergency service volunteers and their employers, including self-employed volunteers, through the Volunteer and Employer Recognition and Support Program (VERSP). This program was established in 2008 and consists of formalised recognition events to acknowledge the contribution of both volunteers and their supportive employers.