Rural Fire Service in Western Australia

The State Government has announced the creation of a dedicated Rural Fire Division within the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).
It will focus on the way the State tackles rural fire management, with a greater emphasis on mitigation activities and training and enhancing partnerships with this State’s bushfire volunteers.

We will continue to harness local knowledge, recognising the importance of collaboration between teams, services and agencies.
The Rural Fire Division will incorporate the Office of Bushfire Risk Management, a Bushfire Centre of Excellence, Bushfire Risk Management Programs and an increased focus on volunteer relations.

What is changing?
· A dedicated Rural Fire Division will be established within DFES.
· As part of the changes, an Australian-first $18m Bushfire Centre of Excellence will be established to ensure WA is at the forefront of bushfire research, training and technical expertise.
· A new State Bushfire Advisory Council will ensure greater collaboration between those involved in managing bushfires – as well as giving volunteers and the community a stronger voice in major decisions