The Minns Labor Government is gearing up for the upcoming bushfire season by introducing new firefighting tankers and cutting-edge satellite technology to improve crew safety and connectivity during emergencies.

In a major upgrade, RFS vehicles will now feature Vehicle as a Node (VaaN) technology, enabling RFS personnel to maintain communication even in the most remote areas or if conventional communication systems fail. This integration of Starlink satellite technology ensures the use of radios, mobile phones, and other handheld devices anywhere, anytime—even when traditional infrastructure is compromised.

This upgrade serves as a crucial backup for existing communication systems and location-finding technology. It also empowers crews to live stream video from fire sites across the state, providing command centres with real-time intelligence during incidents. Over the next three years, more than 5,000 RFS operational vehicles will be equipped with this new technology, funded by the $69 million VaaN project. The NSW Telco Authority is partnering with the RFS to implement this communications upgrade, with installations commencing this year.

In the past year, the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has also delivered 143 new and 69 refurbished firefighting tankers to brigades statewide. The new trucks, predominantly dispatched to regional areas such as Balranald, Eurobodalla, Armidale, and Gilgandra, significantly bolster community protection, especially in the state’s south following the devastating 2019/20 Black Summer fires. The Category 1 tankers, most frequently used on the fire front, constitute the largest number of trucks distributed across the state.

The refurbished trucks are enhanced with safety features like a halo sprinkler system for the cabin, custom-fitted heat curtains, electric hose reels, and portable Public Safety Network and fireground radio chargers. These upgrades meet stringent RFS firefighting standards and are assembled locally at facilities in Kirrawee, Minto, Tomago, and South Windsor.

Additionally, the NSW Government has committed to a new contract for the aerial RFS fleet, ensuring stability and a predominantly NSW-based crew over the next decade. The Bush Fire Danger Period for northern parts of the state began on August 1, with the statutory period for the entire state starting on October 1.

NSW Premier Chris Minns stated:“It’s crucial our volunteer firefighters have the right equipment and vehicles for their duties. These new trucks and technology upgrades will enhance community protection across the state. We are equipping our first responders with reliable communications technology for critical moments.”

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib added:“The Black Summer fires remind us of the vital role our volunteers and their equipment play. We are committed to supporting them with necessary resources. The new and refurbished fire trucks will be welcomed by local brigades and communities, and the new connectivity technology will make RFS trucks safer for frontline crews.”

RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers emphasized:“While our existing trucks have served us well, it’s essential to equip our members safely for optimal community service across NSW. Overcoming communication blackspots is vital for rural firefighters, and this new technology significantly enhances our statewide network, benefiting communities in need.”

This comprehensive initiative underscores the Minns Labor Government's commitment to equipping RFS personnel with the tools necessary to safeguard communities during the bushfire season.