New training rolls out across state

We've reached the end of the first year of our Low Voltage Fuse Removal (LVFR) project and there has been significant progress, with 401 people from 111 brigades completing the training so far.

New equipment and kits are also in the process of being distributed to 60 volunteer brigades who have four members trained under the program. We have also installed LVFR props in all our VEMTC training grounds and developed a mobile trailer for use at various brigades.

The low voltage training package has changed significantly since this training was last delivered, including new equipment, regulations and processes.

This means members who have completed the course in the past will need to complete the new one-day training package.

By completing LVFR, together with its prerequisite Electrical Awareness on the Learning Management System, our people will have the capability to operate safely on firegrounds when there is an electrical issue, and be able to attack fires without the need to wait for an electrical professional.

We're working closely with our district teams to prioritise the rollout of the next phase of LVFR training. We expect that 4800 (target 10 per Brigade) firefighters across 479 brigades will complete the training across the duration of the project.

I encourage you to take advantage and complete this course when it's made available to your brigade.

We will begin piloting the new Safe Working from Heights (SWH) training program with selected brigades this month to allow for the evaluation of course materials, content, and practical and theoretical components.

After this pilot phase, the training will be rolled out to the first 32 identified priority locations as part of the first training round.

Like LVFR, equipment will be available to brigades who meet the SWH course requirements so they have everything they need to put their new skills into action.

Both training packages are an exciting step forward for CFA, ensuring our people have the knowledge and equipment to work safely at the scene of an incident.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who has committed to making this training successful, including our people in our regions, districts and brigades who have so eagerly participated so far.

At CFA, we are focused on building supportive and empowering training opportunities for our people. We look forward to continuing to deliver innovative training programs that ensure our volunteers and staff have the necessary skills, attributes and experience to carry out their roles safely.