A long-standing burden is set to be removed from council balance sheets, with the RFS Red Fleet transferring to the NSW Government in 2027.

Following long-standing advocacy by WSROC and member councils, the NSW Government has announced that ownership of the Rural Fire Service Red Fleet will transfer from councils to the NSW Government from 1 July 2027.

For decades, councils have been required to carry these assets on their balance sheets despite not controlling their acquisition, use or disposal.

The reform will remove a significant financial and administrative burden from councils, including asset management, depreciation and reporting obligations.

WSROC welcomes this important reform and thanks the NSW Public Accounts Committee for its earlier recommendation that the fleet be recognised as a NSW Government asset.

For more information: RFS fleet management.