How is NSW Rural Fire Service funded?
Fire fighting efforts were funded by the Bush Fire Fighting Fund, established in 1949 and financed by insurance companies, local council and the State Government.
How many rural fire brigades are there in NSW?
2,000 rural fire brigades
Structure. The NSW RFS comprises almost 2,000 rural fire brigades with a total volunteer membership of approximately 72,000.
Which areas does the RFS service map?
The NSW RFS has fire management responsibilities for over 95 percent of the landmass of the State and therefore the Service is spread across the length and breadth of NSW….Our seven Area Commands are:
- Hunter.
- Western.
- Greater Sydney.
- North Western.
- South Western.
- North Eastern.
- South Eastern.
Is the RFS a government agency?
Although fighting fires and protecting the community from emergencies is the most visible aspect of the NSW RFS, the Service has many responsibilities as the leading agency for bush fire management and mitigation in NSW. The administration of the NSW RFS is part of the larger NSW Public Sector.
Do RFS volunteers get paid?
The payments of up to $300 per day will be available to Rural Fire Service NSW volunteers who are self-employed or work for small and medium businesses. They will be capped at $6000 per person and are tax-free.
Is fire brigade free in NSW?
FRNSW does not charge for attending fires, or attending hazardous materials emergencies for less than one hour, or for rescue operations. The Fire and Rescue NSW ACT 1989, Sect 42 [external link] allows FRNSW to charge for attending false alarm call-outs to monitored AFA systems.
Is NSW RFS not for profit?
The NSW RFS Donations Fund is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission and, like many of its brigades, holds Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status which makes any donation received over $2.00 tax deductible.
What is my bal rating?
We use the term ‘bush fire attack level’, or BAL, to quantify this risk….Bush Fire Attack Level.
| BAL | Description of risk |
|---|---|
| BAL – 12.5 | Risk is primarily from potential embers during a fire. |
| BAL – 19 | Moderate risk, particularly from embers and burning debris. |
| BAL – 29 | High risk, particularly from embers, debris and heat. |
Do the SES get paid?
Most applicants will receive their payment within five days of the application. For more information, visit a Service NSW Centre, go online to www.service.nsw.gov.au or call 13 77 88.
Who pays for the fire service?
taxpayers
The Fire Service is funded by taxpayers and as such any duty involving response to an emergency situation and/or preservation of life is within the core duty of the Service.
Are donations to the rural fire service tax-deductible?
Donations made directly to the NSW RFS are for the benefit of volunteer brigades and are always gratefully received and are a tremendous help. All donations over $2.00 are tax-deductible.
How can I help my local fire department?
Here are a few ways that you can show your support for your local fire department.
- Join!
- Donate: The fire department is always in need of training material, supplies, and equipment.
- Educate: The next best thing you can do is educate yourself and your family about fire prevention.
Can you build in asset protection zone?
Asset Protection Zones are significant, because we are not permitted to build a house (or other habitable dwelling) within that zone.