Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) (as of 1 January 2011) formerly the New South Wales Fire Brigades (NSWFB), created in 1910, is the State Government agency responsible for the provision of fire, rescue and hazmat services in cities and towns across New South Wales in accordance with the Fire and Rescue NSW Act 1989 [external link], the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989 [external link] and other related legislation. The FRNSW is one of the key agencies involved in the response phase of most emergency or disaster events throughout NSW.

FRNSW is one of the world’s largest urban fire and rescue services and is the busiest in Australia. Our overriding purpose is to enhance community safety, quality of life, and confidence by minimising the impact of hazards and emergency incidents on the people, property, environment and economy of NSW.

Our highly-skilled fire officers and support staff provide rapid, reliable help in emergencies, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our aim is to save lives and reduce the number of injuries caused by emergencies and disasters. We also protect the environment and minimise damage to property, including major infrastructure. In partnership with the community and other emergency services, we strive hard to prevent emergencies, while at the same time planning and training to deal with those that do occur.

FRNSW has its headquarters and logistics support centre at 1 Amarina Ave, Greenacre; operational communication centres at Alexandria and Newcastle; a training college at Alexandria; a network of 335 fire stations across the State, a fleet of 684 firefighting vehicles and a contingent of 188 accredited rescue crews.

FRNSW currently has more than 6858 Firefighters; approximately 5891 Community Fire Unit Members and 432 Administrative and Trades Staff working together for a safer, confident community.

Hamilton Bowden