The Peer Support Program is run via the NSW RFS and aims to provide confidential, understanding and timely support to all RFS members and their immediate family members.. We know that serving in emergency response can be rewarding but also challenging. Sometimes, talking to someone who “gets it” makes all the difference.
Remember: It’s normal to need support. Reaching out is a strength, not a weakness.
Our Peer Support Program exists to walk alongside you - because looking after each other is part of who we are in the RFS.
More resources available for members via OneRFS and the Your Mental Health Matters and Supports within the RFS presentations.
Peer Supporters are trained RFS volunteers and staff who:
Have lived experience in emergency response
Understand the unique demands of fire and emergency service response and work
Are trained in providing confidential, non-judgmental support
Work alongside professional support services when needed
The Member Assistance Program is a free support available 24/7 for RFS staff, volunteers, and their immediate family members.
The program connects members with independent professionals, which can provide a sense of neutrality and enhance accessibility, ensuring that members receive the support they need when they need it.
Contact via TELUS Health 1300 360 364 or request a session via telushealth.com/en-au.
You can connect with a Peer Supporter at any time:
1800 049 933 – When you call this number, you’ll be connected to the Operations Coordination Centre (OCC). Simply ask to speak with a ‘Peer Support Duty Officer’ and provide your phone number. They will ensure a Mental Health Services Duty Officer calls you back. There are Mental Health Services Duty Officers on call 24/7 ready to support you.
Email: mental.wellbeing@rfs.nsw.gov.au
Your Brigade Captains, leadership/management teams, or District Office can help to discreetly connect you with a Peer Supporter.
Peer Supporters are trained RFS volunteers and staff who:
Have lived experience in emergency response
Understand the unique demands of fire and emergency service response and work
Are trained in providing confidential, non-judgmental support
Work alongside professional support services when needed
The Chaplaincy and Family Support Program provides support before, during and after a crisis for staff, volunteers and their immediate families. This includes spiritual and religious support, acknowledging an individual’s beliefs and values. This team aim to maintain a connection with members as far as possible and act with integrity and compassion at all times.
Fire Chaplains assist with:
Crisis situations involving NSW RFS members
Crisis situations involving families of NSW RFS members
Visiting NSW RFS members that are sick or injured at home or in hospital
Crisis intervention involving victims of emergencies that require fire response
Stress management
Crisis intervention involving staff or volunteers seeking family guidance
The Critical Incident Stress Management (CIMS) process
The IMT in an emergency situation
Liaising with local clergy
Performing or participating in wedding ceremonies, funerals, dedications and baptisms for members and their families
Providing a confidential listening ear
Supporting an individual during grief from loss of function and helping the family and NSW RFS community to be supportive during recovery
For all enquiries relating to counselling and support services, please contact the Counselling and Support Unit on 1800 049 933