Action 1.4: Complete delivery of the connected brigades project (part of $3.6 million program to enhance critical volunteer facing ICT systems).
Action objective: CFA’s ICT systems are fit for purpose and ensure brigades have the capability and capacity required to deliver contemporary services that meet community expectations and needs.
Lead agency: CFA
| Year Two to Five Plan (November 2021) completion date | Year Two to Five Plan (updated May 2023) completion date | Agency reported status as at 30 June 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| June 2022 | June 2023 | Completed |
Context
This action requires CFA to complete and deliver the Connected Brigades Project. This project aims to provide secure and standard internet service to CFA Brigades to support online training and improve communication between brigades, regions, districts and headquarters.
The Connected Brigades Project was rolled over from the Year One Fire Services Reform Implementation Plan to the Year Two to Five Plan because the contractor could not complete installations due to COVID-19 related disruptions and other technical issues.
Progress summary
As at 30 June 2023, CFA reported this action as completed but had not submitted the acquittal form.
Out of the total 1,211 CFA brigades, 1,038 brigades initially opted in for the Connect Brigades Project and received connectivity in 2022. CFA undertook further consultation with brigades in 2022. An additional 115 brigades opted in, and 110 were subsequently connected. A contracted telecommunications provider supports ongoing internet connectivity. As at 30 June 2023, 58 brigades had not opted into the program. CFA reported that brigades that did not opt into the program indicated that they would not utilise internet services, some stations were not connected to power, nor had sufficient network access in the CAoV.
As at 30 June 2023, CFA reported that further work is required to review the viability of satellite connection for the remaining brigades. CFA is exploring the viability of satellite connectivity for sites unable to be connected by fixed line or 4G connections.
Findings
FSIM finds action 1.5 is implemented with 1,148 brigades receiving internet connectivity as at 30 June 2023. FSIM has not yet completed an effectiveness assessment of this action against its objective.
Updated