Bullying rife in Vic fire services: review

A report into Victoria's firefighting services has revealed a culture of widespread bullying and sexism.

The review follows a major report into the Metropolitan Fire Brigade and the Country Fire Authority commissioned by the government in July, looking into the culture, resourcing, operations and management of the services.

Emergency Services Minister Jane Garrett says there is a "significant lack of gender diversity in our fire services, with only three per cent of firefighters who are women".

She said submissions to the review revealed a culture of widespread bullying and discriminatory practices, as indicated by the low number of female firefighters.

"We're in 2015, and anyone regardless of their cultural background or gender, if they have the skills, who wants to be a firefighter should be a firefighter," Mr Garrett said on 3AW on Wednesday.

But leading MFB firefighter Emily Trimble has discounted Ms Garrett's views, telling AAP that female firefighters were feeling "outraged at Jane .. and her views".

"Female firefighters seek to be firefighters, no more and no less than any other firefighter.

"Every time we are segregated and singled out ... we are seen as a separate entity and even though intentions may be good, it does not help us," she said.

The review comes only weeks after a report by the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission found female police were subjected to predatory sexual harassment, discrimination and assault within Victoria Police.

Ms Garrett said Victorian Human Rights Commissioner Kate Jenkins would be assisting the fire services on any changes.

All submissions to the review, provided they are not confidential, will be released next year, Ms Garrett said.