Continued need for Emergency Services facilities

Published on 14 July 2025

While the State Government has deemed the facilities at Mansfield SES as ‘currently functional’ with no plans to upgrade the station as reported in the Mansfield Courier on 2 July 2025, Council has put forward a grant application to the Federal Government for a project worth $23m.  

Council submitted an application to the Federal Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnership Program Stream 2 – Delivery round for the Mansfield Emergency Services Precinct (MESP) and confirmed partner contributions including the contribution of the Council land at the current Mansfield SES site (old saleyards site).

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said there was a clear and obvious need for better emergency services facilities.

“We are listening to the community and for years, it has been clear that the Mansfield SES is a priority for needing improved facilities. The Mansfield SES has consistently delivered an incredible service to our community and they deserve to have the facilities they need,” said Cr Rabie.

“The state government assessment of the facilities does not match Council’s. Our officers have inspected the facilities and have identified significant improvements required in terms of accessibility, vehicle and storage space and amenities

“Not only are our SES saying they need better facilities, but our community are also telling us that they want and need to feel that emergency services have a serviceable and well supported unit.

“As our population grows, it is clear there is a future need for improved emergency services. This is one of the many ways Council is planning for the future of our community.

“We are listening. We are taking every opportunity to raise funding and work toward the development of a Mansfield Emergency Services Precinct that would involve the construction of new buildings for the Mansfield SES, Ambulance Victoria, and the Mansfield Emergency Resilience Centre,” said Cr Rabie.

“During our Council Plan consultation we heard loud and clear from all parts of our community that emergency services are a priority. Even the youngest members of our community have said this is what’s important to them. We are listening.”

The funding amount requested is $18,850,653 and has confirmed partner contributions of $4,156,000 (including Council’s in-kind contribution for the value of the land) bringing the total project cost to $23,006,653.

Stakeholders actively participated in the development of the application, including the Mansfield SES.

Mansfield SES Unit Controller Roslyn Fauvel said the Mansfield SES was grateful to Council for its continued advocacy in support of the SES.

“We know we have Council’s support as we strive to best serve the Mansfield community,” she said.

“The grant application was an enormous effort and no matter the outcome, we really appreciate everyone’s involvement, hard work and support. Fingers crossed!”

For more information about the future Emergency Services Precinct, go to engage.mansfield.vic.gov.au