The Government has appointed its first State Fire Rescue Commissioner, with veteran firefighter Ken Block announced in the new role this week (also see Appointments).
The Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Lisa Neville said Mr Block would head up the new Fire Rescue Victoria agency set to be launched in July next year.
“With almost 40 years of firefighting experience, Mr Block has the skills and the distinguished emergency services history to serve the Victorian community and lead the establishment of Fire Rescue Victoria,” Ms Neville said.
“Mr Block has served as a firefighter since 1980 and his appointment follows an extensive international search to find the best candidate for this critical role,” she said.
“He most recently held the position of Chief Fire Officer of the Edmonton Fire Rescue Services in Canada.”
Ms Neville said the Government had been working closely with fire agencies and other stakeholders to prepare for the establishment of Fire Rescue Victoria.
“As part of this work, Mr Block will commence with the Department of Justice and Community Safety in February 2020 before transitioning to Fire Rescue Victoria when it officially comes into operation on 1 July,” she said.
She said Fire Rescue Victoria would bring together career firefighters from the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and the Melbourne Fire Brigade (MFB) under one organisation to lead fire services in metropolitan Melbourne and major regional centres.
Ms Neville said the Government had enshrined in law the modern emergency services the State needed, with the Firefighters’ Presumptive Rights Compensation and Fire Services Legislation Amendment (Reform) Bill passing Parliament earlier this year.
