Calling for firefighters ahead of future bushfires

Forest Fire Management Victoria is making a big push for firefighters ahead of this year's bushfire season. Picture: SUPPLIED

Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) is looking for people in Greater Melbourne, who are after a challenging and rewarding job helping protect Victorian communities for the upcoming bushfire season and to assist with land management activities, to join its team.

FFMVic Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Port Phillip Tamara Beckett, said applications are now open for approximately 22 project firefighters (PFF) to work in a number of locations throughout the Port Phillip region.

“These fixed-term positions are a fantastic opportunity for people from all walks of life who are physically fit to get out in the bush, protect Victoria from bushfires and help to maintain public land right across the state,” she said.

“You could be operating heavy machinery one week and responding to an emergency the next. The roles involve being on the frontline fighting bushfires, conducting planned burns, managing

roadside vegetation, pest and weed control, maintaining access to fire trails and roads, and supporting other emergency work to help protect the community and environment.”

The range of PFF roles available includes general firefighters, fire support officers and rappel crew.

Eighteen roles are also solely dedicated to Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people reflecting the State Government’s commitment to a diverse workforce while also supporting Traditional Owners to care for Country and lead cultural burning across the landscape.

“Successful recruits will be fully trained and get the opportunity to work with experienced staff from a range of fire management agencies right across the state, and potentially nationally and internationally if required,” Ms Beckett said.

Driver’s licence and medical and fitness assessments are required.

Applications are now open and close on 31 July, to apply visit jobs.careers.vic.gov.au/pff or call 136 186.