- Powerlink Queensland, alongside Energex and Ergon Network as part of Energy Queensland, invest $300,000 in State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers.
- Funds will buy vital equipment for SES groups across Queensland.
- This is the tenth year of the partnership between State-owned energy companies and SES.
Queensland’s energy companies, Powerlink Queensland, alongside Energex and Ergon Network (part of Energy Queensland) have partnered to support SES volunteers through a $300,000 sponsorship.
The 2024-25 Energising Queensland SES partnership is the largest investment into equipment for the State’s volunteers since it began in 2014.
Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said the partnership highlighted the strong bond between the organisations.
“We often see our SES volunteers working alongside our energy workers in times of disaster ensuring power is restored to Queenslanders as quickly as possible,” he said.
“This partnership has stood the test of time and underscores the Queensland spirit of mates helping mates when they need it most.
“Enabling the purchase of additional vital equipment better equips our orange army and boosts the resilience of Queensland communities.”
This funding enables SES groups across Queensland to apply for funds to buy vital equipment to enhance the critical service they provide their communities.
More than 140 SES groups across Queensland were the beneficiary of the 2023-24 Energising Qld SES program, purchasing equipment such as power tools, generators, lighting, vehicle accessories, first aid and water rescue training equipment, stretchers and tactical response kits.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the partnership provided volunteers with access to equipment that helps them better serve Queenslanders.
“SES volunteers are the backbone of our communities and to have access to this funding that enhances their capabilities is a win for them and their local communities,” he said.
“Our volunteers respond to a range of calls for assistance at a moment’s notice and having the right equipment is vital to the tasks they’re required to perform.”
Energy Queensland CEO Peter Scott expressed how proud he was of this partnership with the SES.
“For more than a decade, Energex and Ergon have been privileged to collaborate with these dedicated individuals who selflessly serve our communities, especially during times of crisis,” Mr Scott said.
“This partnership, which has provided on behalf of our Queensland customers nearly $2 million over the past decade, it is a testament to our shared values and joint dedication to community safety and resilience of Queenslanders.
“It is also an investment in the safety and well-being of our communities, ensuring that our SES volunteers are equipped with the tools they need to perform their vital roles effectively.”
Powerlink CEO Paul Simshauser reflected on the ten-year partnership forged between each organisation.
“I think of how disasters have impacted Queensland over the last decade and two things are most noticeable; volunteers responding to calls for help and energy workers out restoring safe access to electricity,” he said.
“We all have a role to play in building resilient communities and we are proud to be part of such a rewarding partnership.”
Over the course of the ten-year partnership, $1.5 million has been contributed to the SES benefitting the more than 5,000 volunteers who dedicate their time to the SES.
Applications are now open for SES groups with delivery of new equipment to commence late February.
SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong thanked Powerlink, Energex and Ergon Network for their ongoing support.
“Our volunteers are an integral part of their communities,” he said.
“We are grateful for the support of our energy partners to be better equipped to do the work they willingly do.”
Additional information:
- The Energising Queensland SES Equipment Program is funded by Powerlink, Energex and Ergon Energy. Powerlink’s contribution is $100,000, Energex and Ergon Network is $200,000.
- Powerlink doubled their contribution in 2023-24 (from $50,000 to $100,000), while in 2024-25, Energex and Ergon Network increased their contribution from $150,000 to $200,000.
- All SES groups across Queensland are eligible to apply for equipment funded through the program. Applications open January 16 and close on February 16.
