Emergency Volunteering
Emergency volunteers play a vital role in disasters like floods, fires, storms, searches and medical emergencies. Some are on the frontlines, others are behind the scenes helping bolster the capacity of emergency services to be able to respond to community needs on an ongoing basis. Learn how to become an emergency volunteer in NSW.
Become an emergency volunteer
If you want to help during a disaster, consider volunteering with an emergency service or volunteer organisation before a disaster occurs. That way, you will have the experience, training and essential skills to help during an emergency.
Many emergency services organisations offer induction, training, and skills development to make sure you are well prepared to help during a disaster.
There are many different organisations involved in emergency management and response in NSW that offer a diverse range of volunteering opportunities, including frontline, coordination, and other support roles.
Consider what local emergency services are in your community and find out how to become an emergency volunteer in NSW.
Emergency services organisations in NSW
Helping your community after disaster
Other Resources
Currently advertised volunteer positions
Volunteering enriches the lives of volunteers and benefits all of NSW.
It’s a great way to make a difference in an area you are passionate about. It's also a great way to have fun, meet new people, and develop skills and experience.
Find out what emergency services volunteering opportunities are currently available.
Informal volunteers
The NSW Government recognises the important role of community members in responding to disasters. Recent disasters in NSW have demonstrated how communities mobilise in times of need.
There are a range of ways community members can help during a disaster as informal volunteers – including with an emergency service or other community organisations.
It is important that people take measures to stay safe when volunteering during a disaster - helping with a task that you feel equipped and prepared to undertake is the safest approach.
Emergency services organisations and the NSW Reconstruction Authority lead the response and recovery efforts for disasters in NSW, respectively, and are further developing their arrangements to support the coordination of informal volunteers. More information on these will be made available.
In the meantime, find out more about how the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) works with informal volunteers who respond during floods and storms.
Volunteer stories
Hear the firsthand experiences of volunteers, as they share their stories of the positive change they bring to their communities.
Prepare for emergencies before they happen
Everyday actions make a difference. Together, we can prepare our community for natural disasters such as storms, fires, floods and heatwaves.
Find out more about your risks, how to prepare an emergency plan and what to pack in your emergency kit.
Case Studies
NSW SES Recruitment Video
Join Marine Rescue NSW
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