IFARES

Indigenous Fire and Rescue Employment Strategy

The Indigenous Fire and Rescue Employment Strategy (IFARES) is an initiative designed to provide recruitment readiness for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people to prepare, encourage and assist them in becoming Permanent Firefighters. It is specifically structured to break down long standing barriers to Indigenous recruitment of First Nations People.

What is IFARES?

IFARES is a recruitment readiness pathway for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people residing within NSW. Designed by Aboriginal FRNSW staff, IFARES has been increasing access to FRNSW careers for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 2014.

The aim of the IFARES Program is to provide equity and opportunity for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people to gain employment with FRNSW.

IFARES provides participants with a genuine FRNSW recruit firefighter experience by immersing them into simulated training activities and routines of emergency first responders.

Participants will also complete a Nationally Recognised Certificate III qualification provided by our training partner , TAFE NSW. The qualification will be delivered via a culturally safe and supportive adult learning environment with flexible online and face-to-face delivery.

Another key outcome for participants is exposure to the FRNSW recruitment process. They will have targeted learning opportunities that provide unique insight into the recruitment of permanent firefighters. Throughout the program participants undertake physical, emotional, intellectual and social activities designed to build the confidence, resilience and courage which will empower and inspire them towards a career with FRNSW.