Twelve new firefighters have officially joined the ranks of the Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS), as Recruit Firefighter Squad 51 celebrated their graduation after 20 weeks of intensive training.
Chief Minister and Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Lia Finocchiaro, congratulated the new recruits at the ceremony on Wednesday night and acknowledged their courage, discipline and commitment to community service.
"Squad 51 have marked the beginning of a career defined by service, courage and community," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"Each of them has chosen a path that is not one of ease, but of strength and purpose. They are now part of one of the Territory's most trusted institutions, a proud tradition built on professionalism and deep connection to our communities."
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the diversity of the squad, including three women among the graduates, highlighting the evolving and inclusive future of the service.
Of the 12 graduates, four will be posted to Alice Springs and eight to Darwin, where they will serve as frontline first responders, community leaders, and key pillars of the Territory's emergency preparedness and resilience.
"As a government, we are committed to building the fire and emergency services our communities need, not just now, but for the future," Mrs Finocchiaro said.
"That's why in this year's Budget, we delivered the funding to establish the Northern Territory Fire and Emergency Services as a standalone agency, with an additional $7.7 million bringing the total budget to $86.8 million.
"This investment strengthens our emergency response capacity, ensures firefighters have the right training and equipment, and builds the foundation for a safer and more resilient Territory."
"On behalf of all Territorians, I thank Squad 51 for your commitment and service. Congratulations and welcome to the NTFRS."
