The future of one of Daniel Andrews’ most senior ministers hangs in the balance, with the Premier reportedly ordering his bureaucrats to bring the long-running firefighters dispute to a head and calling in the independent umpire to give the union what it wants.

Government administrators have gone to the Fairwork Commission, urging it to make recommendations the CFA fears will hand its operation over to the union.

The move could force the resignation or sacking of Emergency Services Minister Jane Garrett, who has backed the CFA board.

Shadow Emergency Services Minister Brad Batten says its a sell-out by the Premier.

‘Today, 60,000 volunteers will wake up and hear this news that Daniel Andrews is trying to destroy the heart and soul of the CFA as payback to the unions that got him into government,’ he said.