Council
26 June, 2026
Ministers question assistance for Darlington CFA
TWO south-west MPs have called for action from the state government to help the Darlington Country Fire Authority (CFA) brigade relocate their shed to community-owned land.
The shed, which is located at 18 Ware Street, had been provided to the brigade for over 50 years free of charge by a landowner who has since sold the land.
Member for Western Victoria Bev McArthur spoke during Parliament last Thursday, asking Minister for Emergency Services Vicki Ward what actions are being taken to provide assistance to move the shed before the April 2027 deadline.
“The brigade warns that without urgent action, its trucks and equipment may soon be left without secure housing, putting operational readiness and community safety at risk,” she said.
“A suitable alternative site has been identified next to the Darlington Mechanics Institute hall, with access to the Hamilton Highway, front and rear access and co-location with the existing emergency relief centre.
“What action are you taking, Minister, to fast-track the approvals, funding and planning required to relocate the Darlington fire brigade before the April 2027 deadline?”
Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan also directed questions to Ms Ward, asking when the government would fund and relocate the shed.
“For two years now, Minister, the community of Darlington and the local CFA have been requesting the relocation of their shed,” he said.
“The shed has been provided free of charge for the last 50 years by a local landowner, who has given plenty of time for this government to fund its relocation from his land to some community land some 100 metres down the road.
“The goodness and the kind-heartedness of the local landowner have been taken advantage of.
“The community, the Darlington CFA, the landowner and others in the region immediately want your answer on when that shed will be moved, because without a Darlington CFA our western Victorian plains are at risk, the Darlington Mid-Western Speedway is at risk and the community itself will be at risk.”
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