As part of our commitment, CFA has several training facilities across the state to prepare career and volunteer firefighters for every incident they attend.

CFA, with the state government, is now preparing to build a new multi-million training facility in Ballan that will service firefighters from the CFA’s Western Region, including Ballarat, and across the state.

The Victorian Emergency Management Training Centre-Central Highlands will be purpose built to provide training in situations firefighters will encounter on the frontline.

Today marks a significant milestone for the Ballan community, as another step is taken towards the centre becoming a reality.

As part of the planning process for Moorabool council, CFA will host information sessions today and on Thursday.

These sessions will allow residents, businesses and interested parties to ask questions about the proposed centre and raise any concerns.

The centre will not just be an asset for CFA or Ballan, it will serve the region, state and other emergency service organisations.

It will provide an ‘all hazards’ approach, ensuring CFA firefighters have the skills and practical experience needed to uphold our mission.

It will allow firefighters to train with hot fire and multi-purpose training pads, as well as an off-road driver track, firefighting props and specialist training capability.

The central location will also ensure our firefighters spend less time driving across the state, giving them more time in their communities and with their families.

CFA is undertaking consultation because we understand how important this development will be to the community, creating jobs and boosting the local economy. It is important we get this right.

The information sessions, at the Ballan Council Office from 2-8pm today and on Thursday, are open to all.