The Association is disappointed that it was yet again not invited to attend the launch of a campaign that we donated almost 100 hours to help DFES develop. From the news reports on TV, it appears the media were told bushfire volunteer numbers were of a particular concern.

We sincerely hope this expenditure of ESL delivers positive results for all.

Government media statement below.

‘Get Behind the Frontline’ to help our emergency services

  • New advertising and marketing campaign ‘Get Behind the Frontline’ to begin Monday
  • Campaign highlights the range of diverse volunteer roles for all ages and skill levels
  • Next generation of volunteers feature in a new recruitment campaign launched by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services

A new State-wide advertising and marketing campaign to encourage people of all ages and skill levels to become an emergency services volunteer will begin tomorrow (November 4).

The Get Behind the Frontline campaign aims to highlight the wide range of diverse volunteering roles that can be carried out by volunteers who might not be suited to frontline operations.

Volunteers are a critical part of the State’s emergency response, comprising up to 99 per cent of all personnel in some regional areas.

Through social, digital and print media, Get Behind the Frontline seeks to educate the community about behind the scenes emergency services roles, attract new recruits from diverse backgrounds, and drive traffic to the online volunteer recruitment page.

Attracting new volunteers can be challenging – it is even more challenging to attract new recruits to the emergency services sector when there is a perception that only frontline, operational personnel are required.

There are vital non-operational positions that support brigades, groups and units including communications, catering, mapping and logistics, vehicle maintenance and social media engagement.

To find your volunteer role, visit https://dfes.vol.org.au

Comments attributed to Emergency Services Minister Francis Logan:

“Volunteers are incredibly important and without them, we simply wouldn’t be able to provide a timely and effective emergency response throughout the State.

“You don’t need to be on the frontline to contribute. There are plenty of roles in areas such as administration, communications, catering, logistics and educating the community.

“Volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new people and learn new skills, but most importantly it’s a chance to give something back.

“You could help save a life, and that is an invaluable contribution to your community.”

https://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/McGowan/2019/11/Get-Behind-the-Frontline-to-help-our-emergency-services-.aspx