Overview of NSW RFS

• • • Founded: Over 100 years ago, with formal structure under the Rural Fires Act 1997
    • Coverage: Serves rural and regional NSW, including bushfire-prone areas
    • Membership: More than 70,000 volunteers across 2,000+ brigades
    • Headquarters: Located in Sydney, with regional offices throughout NSW

Core Responsibilities

NSW RFS responds to a wide range of incidents:

• • • Bush and grass fires
    • Structure fires in rural districts
    • Storm damage and flood assistance
    • Motor vehicle accidents
    • Search and rescue operations
    • Community education and bushfire mitigation

They also assist other emergency services during major disasters and provide logistical and operational support.

Prevention & Preparedness

NSW RFS is deeply involved in:

• • • • Hazard reduction burns to manage fuel loads
      • Bushfire risk assessments and planning
      • Community engagement programs like Get Ready Weekend
      • Fire trail maintenance and access planning

Their goal is to reduce the likelihood and impact of fires through proactive risk management.

Volunteer Culture

• • • Volunteers are trained in firefighting, incident management, first aid, and communications
    • Brigades range from remote rural units to village-based teams
    • Many volunteers are also involved in community resilience efforts and education programs

Vision & Mission

• • • Vision: To provide a world standard of excellence in volunteer-based community fire and emergency services.
    • Mission: To protect the community and environment by minimizing the impact of fire and other emergencies.