13 October 2026
Hundreds of firefighters are set to gather outside Premier Ben Carroll’s electorate office in Niddrie today, demanding Premier Carroll intervene to stop proposed cuts to their safety standards. This follows yesterday’s protest in Frankston against Emergency Services Minister Paul Edbrooke’s actions in the Fair Work Commission.
The United Firefighters Union (UFU) has condemned the government’s attempts to end uniform and equipment standards, which they argue are vital for firefighter safety.
Yesterday, a career firefighter and union member who campaigned alongside Minister Edbrooke in 2014 stated, “If Minister Edbrooke does not withdraw his attacks on uniform and equipment standards, he will become a ‘pariah’ among firefighters.”
Another firefighter, who served on station alongside Minister Edbrooke prior to Minister Edbrooke’s 2014 entry into politics, expressed deep disappointment, saying, “Minister Edbrooke has turned his back on us, and I am so disappointed.”
In response to the government’s claims that the UFU walked away from negotiations and that their position is unrealistic, the union yesterday evening sent a letter to Minister Edbrooke disputing this and providing clarification. The letter requests the minister to correct the record regarding the union’s position.
Peter Marshall, UFU Branch Secretary, emphasised the Premier’s previous commitments, stating, “The Premier told firefighters previously that he will work to resolve their Enterprise Agreement. He is now Premier, and he needs to come good on that commitment.”
When: Tuesday, 13 October – 10:30 AM
Where: Premier Ben Carroll’s electorate office, 441 Keilor Rd, Niddrie
Who: UFU Branch Secretary Peter Marshall and firefighters/UFU members
Media Contact: Peter Marshall – 0419 127 004