Volunteering in the NSW RFS
There are many reasons to join the NSW RFS. You may want to protect your families, your friends, your home and assets, your community, and your way of life.
Volunteering also offers the opportunity to learn new and valuable skills that will not only assist you in your voluntary role but in day to day life and even your workplace. It is also an opportunity to meet people you wouldn't normally meet.
For many of our members, it's also about being part of a wonderful tradition and an organisation with a very proud history.
What can you expect from the NSW RFS?
The NSW RFS provides training and education opportunities to all members free of charge, giving you the knowledge and skills to work safely. As a Registered Training Organisation, the NSW RFS offers nationally accredited qualifications which mean you can take those qualifications and use them in your day to day life. The NSW RFS also has a number of flexible training options available for members, including manuals and workbooks that allow for the flexible delivery of training as well as some online options.
The welfare of our members is important to us, and we have services in place that support our members and their families.
Am I protected?
All members of the NSW RFS are protected from legal liability when fighting bush fires, or performing other authorised activities as defined in the Rural Fires Act 1997. Additionally, all members are covered for workers compensation claims for any injuries sustained while taking part in authorised brigade activities.
How do I join?
Becoming a volunteer with the NSW RFS is easy. Come down to the Killcare Wagstaffe Rural Fire Brigade Station on any Wednesday night from 7:30pm. A member will happily speak to you about the application process and answer any questions you may have.
What is the application process?
Once you've completed an application form you will be invited to attend an interview with the Brigade. The interview will cover the types of things you can expect as a volunteer of the NSW RFS, what your voluntary role will involve and what the NSW RFS expects from its members. During the interview, you will need to bring along 100 points of identification.
It is important for the NSW RFS to make an assessment about each applicant's suitability for membership because our volunteers hold a position of trust within the community. Background checks are an important step in this process, and a criminal history check will be conducted after your application form is completed and your interview has been conducted.
If your application for membership is successful, you will be accepted as a probationary member of the Brigade for a minimum period of six months. During this time you can undertake some activities and training, and at the end of the probationary period the Brigade will vote on whether to accept you as an ordinary member.