The ultra-light tanker is one of six rolled out across Victoria as part of a government initiative. 

DELWP preparedness and response program manager Carsten Nannestad said the vehicle could hold 630 litres of water compared with 400 litres in older tankers.

He said the increase in water capacity meant firies could stay longer on the fire ground. 

"This is our latest weapon in our fight against bush fires. It has got really improved safety features," he said.

"Firefighting is inherently a dangerous occupation so we do whatever we can to keep our firefighters safe."

Mr Nannestad said the vehicle also gave extra protection to firefighters from falling objects. 

"The ultra-light tanker has a large steel frame above the cabin which will help protect our crews from falling trees and branches, which is important because DELWP firefighters spend a lot of time battling fires in remote areas of forest," he said. 

"Fires weaken trees and they can fall unexpectedly so it is imperative we keep our crews as safe as possible."

Other features include an automatic hose reel and cabin fire curtains. 

Another 31 vehicles will be rolled out across the state in November, with Bendigo to receive another two. 

Mr Nannestad said DELWP would wait for about an inch of rain before it commenced planned burning. 

"In Spring and Autumn, that's when we can plan burn safely. At the moment, until we get some rain, it's far too dry, so it's too risky," he said.