Flood and storm response in the state's Central West is being bolstered by a new NSW State Emergency Service (SES) facility, as construction starts on a project delivering a fit-for-purpose space for first responders.
The new $4.8 million SES facility on Boyd Circuit in Parkes will replace the current outdated building, which was damaged by flooding, to meet operational demands and improve the region's emergency response during storms, floods and rescues.
This new facility will include garages to house the new generation of advanced NSW SES rescue vehicles and boats, storage for specialist rescue equipment, along with modern offices, training rooms, a kitchen and change room facilities.
It will provide improved safety standards for members and will be equipped with the latest technology to access emergency operation systems more seamlessly.
The project is funded by a $3.5 million investment from the NSW Government and $1.3 million through the Community Assets Program under the jointly funded Australian and NSW Governments Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. The program aims to repair, restore and improve the resilience of community infrastructure damaged by storms and floods in 2022.
Construction on the new NSW SES Parkes Unit facility is expected to be complete mid-2026.
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib:
"This new headquarters will make sure our SES teams in the Central West have the equipment and facilities they need to assist local communities through floods, storms and other emergencies.
"Our Parkes SES volunteers have continued protecting their community despite overcoming flooding in their own headquarters, and we want to ensure they have a base with the tools and equipment they need to grow, plan and train for the next disaster so they can continue providing the highest level of service."
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Hon Kristy McBain:
"The Australian Government is committed to helping the flood-impacted Central West to rebuild for the long term."
"When emergencies strike in Parkes, locals rely on the SES volunteers. This investment will give the Parkes volunteers the facility they deserve, so they can continue their vital work to keep everyone safe."
Quotes attributable to NSW SES Commissioner, Mike Wassing AFSM:
"The NSW SES Parkes Unit has had a busy few years, responding to significant storm and flooding events, along with road crash rescues, general land rescues and supporting with numerous interagency missions. In the last five years, the dedicated members have answered nearly 500 calls for assistance.
"This fit-for-purpose facility will ensure our members can continue to deliver the highest level of service to the community in times of need. It will allow the local volunteers to train, maintain equipment and respond to incidents even more effectively."
Quotes attributable to Senator Deborah O'Neill, Labor Spokesperson for Parkes:
"The Labor Government understands that SES volunteers are heroes to so many in the Central West.
"This investment will ensure that the SES volunteers in Parkes will have fit-for-purpose facilities to continue to serve the region of Parkes and beyond."
Quotes attributable to Member for Orange, Philip Donato:
"Our community has been hit hard by storms and floods in recent years, and I welcome this investment from the Australian and NSW Governments to help us repair and restore our facilities.
"This multi-million-dollar commitment will boost the NSW SES Parkes Unit's capabilities in responding to future severe weather events."
Quotes attributed to Parkes Mayor, Neil Westcott:
"Parkes Shire Council is proud to partner with the NSW SES to deliver this modern, fit-for-purpose facility that will support our dedicated volunteers and the wider community for many years to come.
"Securing $1.3 million through the Community Assets Program, along with Council's contribution of land and project management, has made this important project possible.
"With the increasing demand for SES assistance during emergencies, this new facility will ensure our community, and those around us, are supported in their greatest times of need."
Photo caption: The NSW SES Parkes Unit facility sod turning event was held on Thursday 25 September 2025.
