Monday 2 February 2025
Marine Search and Rescue (MSAR) units and volunteers across the state will benefit from the roll out of new digital radios this month to improve their communication on the water thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
The Labor Government has invested more than $1.3 million to deliver 130 portable radios for volunteers and to install radios on 22 vessels and in eight vehicles.
The radios are connected to the Victorian Radio Network, giving MSAR units real-time communication with the Water Police Rescue Coordination Centre – a step up in connectivity when responding to rescue operations.
It will also support the coordination centre to monitor and locate vessels and crews when they are in the water.
There are five fixed-base stations and a console at the Water Police Coordination Centre with two portable consoles available for use.
The project has been delivered by Emergency Management Victoria, the Department of Justice and Community Safety, Victoria Police, Motorola Solutions and MSAR volunteers and stakeholders.
The Emergency Management Operational Communications Trust Fund delivered more than $760,000 to support the ongoing maintenance of the radios.
MSAR will also trial the use of satellite capability where there is limited connectivity available. The trial will run with the Portland Coast Guard Flotilla and Water Police for six months, starting next month.
Victoria has an MSAR fleet of 48 marine response vessels across 26 locations, with around 800 volunteers. MSAR units responded to more than 1100 incidents in 2023/24.
Everyone visiting Victoria’s waterways should put their safety first by planning your visit by checking the Beachsafe app for hazards and safety ratings, swimming between the flags, never swimming alone or when you’ve been drinking and wear a lifejacket.
Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“Marine Search and Rescue Units (MSAR) play a critical role in keeping people safe in the water - which is why we're making sure they have the best resources to do that.
“These new digital radios will roll out across Victoria and give volunteers live communication with the Water Police -- ensuring everyone has instant information.”
Quotes attributable to Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent
"Victoria's Marine Search and Rescue volunteers do an amazing job proving assistance to those in need, around our coastline, at sea, and our inland waterways.
"Equipping our volunteers with more than 180 digital radios will support greater coordination and information sharing between units during emergencies - helping to keep our community safe."
