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Youth in the NSW RFS

Children and young people play a significant role within the RFS and in local communities. Participation in RFS activities can help children and young people connect with their community and develop a sense of social responsibility and service.

Being part of the RFS fosters qualities of leadership, self-discipline, self-reliance, initiative and teamwork, as well as building confidence in young people. These skills can set up young people for future success in their careers and personal lives. For the RFS, the participation of children and young people, as tomorrow’s leaders, helps us to ensure that our workforce is resilient so we can continue to protect our communities into the future.

Junior Members aged 12-15

The minimum age to join the RFS is 12 years of age, but this may vary depending on the area as different RFS Districts may have a higher minimum age requirement. These members are classified as Junior Members and are not permitted to respond to emergencies. Junior Members, however, may participate in the following:

  • Attending training and obtaining some qualifications
  • National and State-based competitions that test skill and teamwork, with an emphasis on friendly competition and fun
  • District and Area exercises
  • Excursions and camps
  • Social activities
  • Health and wellbeing activities
  • Assistance with operational activities, where appropriate
  • Community service activities such as fundraising, recruitment, and demonstrations at community events.

Young people aged 16-17

If your child is between 16 and 17 years of age, they can apply to join as either a Junior Member or Ordinary Member. Parental consent is required for both categories, however Ordinary Members will be able to attend emergency incidents once they have completed the required training.

Cadet Brigades

Some areas have established Cadet Brigades specifically to provide training and development programs for young members. These brigades do not respond to emergency incidents and most of their members are either under 18, or designated adult leaders and coordinators. The minimum age for joining a Cadet Brigades is 12

years but may vary depending on the district. Young people can remain in a Cadet Brigade up to the age of 18 when they become eligible to apply to transfer to an Ordinary Brigade.

A Child-Safe, Child-Friendly RFS

Organisations that work with children have a legal obligation to ensure their safety, well-being, and rights. In the RFS, all members are required to adhere to the RFS Code of Conduct and organisational standards of best practice when working with young people. Members who work directly with children are required to undergo a Working with Children Check.

The RFS also requires Rural Fire Brigades who have members under the age of 18 to have arrangements in place relating to:

  • Supervision
  • Transportation
  • Overnight activities (if applicable)
  • Age-appropriate activities
  • Administration and access to records
  • Provision of equipment and clothing appropriate to the role
  • Medical and first aid requirements

Qualifications and training

The RFS is a registered training organisation (RTO), and most training courses are aligned with national units of competency. The training is a combination of theory and practical sessions, and some units can be completed online. Junior Members who achieve competency receive qualifications that are recognised throughout Australia. The National Competencies achieved can be an asset on a young person’s resume and may even contribute toward further qualifications and employment prospects in the future.

Awards

Recognising our young members is an effective way to maintain their engagement with the RFS, and their enthusiasm for volunteering. The RFS runs an annual award program that recognises outstanding young members in the following categories;

  • RFS Young Volunteer of the Year (12-15 years)
  • RFS Young Volunteer of the Year (16-25 years)
  • Secondary School Cadet Program - Cadet of the Year Award

Membership support services

The RFS is committed to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of its members and has developed a Mental Health Strategy to achieve our goal of a mentally healthy environment where our members can thrive. The RFS provides counselling and support services for young members and their families who may be experiencing challenging life events both within the RFS and their personal and family life.

Secondary School Cadet Program

The RFS Secondary School Cadet Program (SSCP) has been delivered for over 20 years and presents Year 9 and 10 secondary school students with the opportunity to train with the RFS during their School year. The program can be delivered over 10 weeks (2-hour sessions) or as an intensive 3-day program. The SSCP has been designed to be a practical and hands-on, offering a level of camaraderie and sense of community that is highly regarded by participating students, schools, and communities.

Students will learn new and valuable skills as they participate in interesting and challenging training that provides practical life skills, develops leadership, teamwork and initiative, and fosters qualities of community responsibility and service.

For further information, see the Secondary School Cadet Program.

For further information on any youth related enquiries please contact youthparticipation@rfs.nsw.gov.au