East Gippsland Shire Council has welcomed a commitment from The Nationals to deliver a new CFA station in Lakes Entrance, marking a significant step towards securing an emergency services facility for the community.
The pledge follows Council’s strong advocacy ahead of the 2026 Victorian Election, which identified a new station as a priority investment to improve emergency response capabilities and support community safety.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said Tuesday’s announcement was an important result for Lakes Entrance.
“Council has been making the case for a new CFA station because Lakes Entrance needs emergency services infrastructure that meets the demands of our community, both now and into the future,” Cr Ashworth said.
“The brigade has been seeking a new facility for more than 20 years. This pledge is an important step towards giving our CFA volunteers the facilities they need to do their job safely and effectively.”
The existing Bulmer Street station is around 90 years old and no longer meets the local brigade’s operational needs. Space constraints restrict safe vehicle movements, some appliances must be stored off-site, and the facility limits the brigade’s ability to respond efficiently to emergencies.
Lakes Entrance Fire Brigade attends more than 120 callouts each year, with almost half involving rescues across Gippsland and the Alpine region. Demand increases significantly during peak tourism periods, placing additional pressure on emergency services.
Council-owned land at Palmers Road has been identified as suitable for a purpose-built CFA facility and potential future emergency services precinct. The Victorian Government earlier this year allocated $700,000 in the 2026-27 State Budget for planning, design and land acquisition for the new build.
The CFA has also acknowledged Council’s advocacy on the issue, recognising the importance of efforts to secure a better facility for local firefighters and the communities they protect.
“We will continue to advocate for the project to progress. We have also highlighted the potential for future co-location of emergency services to strengthen coordination during major incidents,” Cr Ashworth said.
The pledge demonstrates the value of Council’s 2026 State Election advocacy, which brings community priorities directly to state political parties and seeks investment in the infrastructure East Gippsland needs, including calls for a new indoor stadium and improved drainage infrastructure in Lakes Entrance.
The Coalition commitment to build a new emergency department at Bairnsdale Hospital is also one of Council’s election priorities.