The national SES Fit for Task program was launched by AFAC and State Emergency Service (SES) agencies at the AFAC23 conference in Brisbane.
The program provides a single approach to ensuring SES staff and volunteers have and maintain the physical fitness needed to operate safely as first responders.
Based solely on Natural Hazards Research Australia research findings and jointly funded by the Australian Council of State Emergency Services, the project was undertaken by Human Performance Science in partnership with SES agencies and AFAC.
Fit for Task is backed by more than a decade of research measuring the minimum physical fitness required by SES members to do their job safely and effectively. The program promotes the safety, health and wellbeing of SES members across Australia, reduces the risk of injury while performing required tasks and builds a culture of wellbeing and safety of SES members. The program also ensures SES members’ ability to safely assist when deployed to support other states and territories during major emergencies.
Nine activities replicating key operational tasks members carry out were assessed, including the effort level and minimum physical fitness level required and typical environments in which SES members operate.
Since launching in August 2023, implementation of Fit for Task has rolled out nationally. Pilot trials are underway in Victoria, Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales and Tasmania, with stakeholder consultations in Western Australia. The program and research that informed its development were featured in the SES Community Matters magazine and Asia Pacific Fire magazine.
“The Fit for Task Implementation Group, endorsed by AFAC’s national SES Operations Group, was established to ensure the implementation rollout contains a robust governance framework. Turning research into action isn’t easy. Every SES agency’s active involvement in the research and its practical application demonstrates our collective belief and commitment to the program, as well as a strong dedication to delivering health and safety benefits to our members across the country.”
Tim Wiebusch - Chief Officer, Victoria SES