New State Emergency Service (SES) Base Proposed for Callan Park

An investigation has been launched into the feasibility of a new State Emergency Service (SES) facility at Callan Park. 

The investigation follows the Minns Labor Government’s passing of the Greater Sydney Parklands Trust Amendment (Review) Bill 2026, which makes it easier for new activations to occupy existing infrastructure.  

The Inner West Council and SES are using the vacation of these strict regulations to consider whether one of Callan Park’s many empty buildings may be a suitable site for a new SES site, complete with vehicle bays, training and administration facilities, and volunteer amenities.

Such facilities are designed to keep the community safe during storms, floods, and other emergencies.

Callan Park SES Facility Garners Widespread Approval

“Communities turn to the SES in their darkest hours,” said Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, “so they need and deserve more high-quality facilities within the Inner West to support their operations.

“This could be achieved at Callan Park without losing green space. In fact, the demolition of unused, vandalised, and condemned buildings will result in an increase in parkland available to the public even if the SES moves in.

Similarly, Minister for Emergency Services Johan Dib threw his support behind a Callan Park SES base, saying such sites are important for “ensuring volunteers have the support and premises they need to activate in a crisis”.

For Summer Hill MP Jo Haylen, there is no better way to revitalise Callan Park than to offer its ample facilities to organisations that actively contribute to the welfare of Inner West residents. 

“The Ashfield-Leichhardt SES Unit deserves a fit-for-purpose facility with the space and facilities required to support our community when they need it most,” said Haylen.

“Giving these historic buildings at Callan Park a new purpose as an SES headquarters is exactly the kind of community-focused revitalisation we want to see, bringing new life to the precinct while supporting a service that gives so much back to the Inner West.”