Farmers are encouraged to nominate their vehicles to take part in a fresh trial now underway to help first responders fight bushfires.
Private farm vehicles used for firefighting purposes known as Farm Fire Units – or Farm Fire Fighting Vehicles (FFFVs) – can be used unregistered under certain conditions, as part of a NSW Government trial in place from now until 31 March, 2025. This change is something the RFS and NSW Farmers have been calling for.
“A fire can break out at any time and sometimes help can be far away – so we know it’s critical that neighbours are able to pitch in and help. The ability to legally use dedicated farm fire fighting vehicles and trailers is a key aspect of this,” Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said.
“To help ensure our farmers can help and respond when needed while still maintaining the safety of all vehicles on our roads, we are carrying out a second trial this fire season while Transport for NSW and key stakeholders continue to examine ways to establish a permanent scheme that does not compromise road safety.”
“Landowners with these vehicles and equipment play a critical role as initial responders to fires, which can destroy millions of dollars’ worth of crops and machinery,” Commissioner of the RFS Rob Rogers said.
“The RFS is part of every rural community and this is an opportunity to empower farmers and strengthen the collaboration between local brigades and their farming colleagues to make our communities safer.”
NSW Farmers Business Economics and Trade Committee Chair John Lowe said the scheme had come as welcome news to farmers across the state, who relied on Farm Fire Units to respond to bushfires quickly and effectively.
“Stopping fires as soon as we can is essential, and Farm Fire Units play a key role in these firefighting efforts in rural communities,” Mr Lowe said.
“These vehicles are often first on the scene to fight a fire, and so there’s no underestimating just how essential they are to first responders during bushfire season in NSW.
“Farmers need to be able to use these vehicles legally on the road when moving between farms and under the protection of third-party insurance, and we hope that through this trial, we can secure a permanent solution to make that possible.”
With bushfire season now well and truly underway, Mr Lowe urged farmers in NSW to nominate eligible vehicles to participate in the trial before it concluded on 31 March.
“If you’ve got a vehicle that’s in a safe operating condition and has firefighting equipment permanently attached, then we strongly encourage you to nominate it for the trial as soon as possible,” Mr Lowe said.
“Farmers should have the tools available at their disposal to safely and effectively fight fires on or near their properties, and this trial will take us one step closer to ensuring that.
“A quick response makes all the difference, and these vehicles are key to getting fires under control fast.”
To nominate a vehicle for the trial, submit this digital nomination form and declare that your vehicle is in a safe operating condition. More information on the program and criteria for eligible vehicles is available via this factsheet.
Don’t miss any of the important stories from around the region. Subscribe to our email list.