How do I become a volunteer firefighter
Get qualified to work as a volunteer firefighter with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Volunteer Firefighter.
Common questions
In Australia, Volunteer Firefighters are generally not paid for their work. You may be given some funds to cover your expenses but you will be donating your time for free. Volunteer Firefighters often have another job as well as their volunteer firefighting role.
Courses.com.au Team
There has been an increase in the number of people working in this industry over the last five years. There are currently 12,200 people employed as a firefighter in Australia and many more who do the work as a volunteer. Volunteer Firefighters work across various regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
Courses.com.au Team
To become a Volunteer Firefighter, consider enrolling in a Certificate IV in Conservation and Land Management. This course addresses a range of topics including revegetation programs and project management. You could also consider a Diploma of Conservation and Land Management.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
What do social workers do?
11th December 2019
Careers for people who love the outdoors
14th September 2021All volunteer firefighter courses
- CPP20521 Certificate II in Fire Protection Inspection and Testing
- PUA20622 Certificate II in Public Safety (Firefighting and Emergency Operations)
- PUA20719 Certificate II in Public Safety (Firefighting Operations)
- PUAFER008 Confine Small Workplace Emergencies in a Facility
- PUAFIR203 Respond to Urban Fire
- PUAFIR204 Respond to Wildfire
Volunteer Firefighter careers
A Volunteer Firefighter attends fires and other emergency situations to reduce damage to property and loss of life. You might extinguish fires with hoses and pumps or use a range of other firefighting techniques. You might also conduct preventative operations like backburning or hazard reduction burns. Volunteer Firefighters might have to rescue people caught in a fire or perform first aid when required.
Volunteer Firefighters need to be able to follow directions and work as part of a team. You’ll need to be physically fit and able to work in a wide range of conditions. Volunteer Firefighters are usually on call and may have to attend emergency situations at any time. You’ll need to be safety focused and able to follow correct procedures.
