Fast facts
About the NSW Rural Fire Service
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is the world's largest volunteer fire service. Our members provide fire and emergency services to approximately 95 percent of NSW. RFS members attend a range of incidents and activities:
- Bush and grass fires
- House and structure fires
- Storm damage
- Search and rescue
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Community education
- Bush fire mitigation.
The responsibilities of the RFS are set out under the Rural Fires Act 1997.
Our vision and mission
To protect the community and our environment by minimising the impact of fire and other emergencies.
Our values
- One Team, Many Players, One Purpose
- Integrity and Trust
- Support, Friendship and Camaraderie
- Mutual Respect
- Adaptability and Resourcefulness
- Community and Our Environment
- Knowledge and Learning
Our organisation
| Brigades | 1,999 |
| RFS Districts | 44 |
| Area Commands | 7 |
| Headquarters | 1 |
| Volunteers | 69,624 |
| Staff | 1,333 |
Approximately 67 percent of RFS staff are, or have been, a RFS volunteer.
The incidents we attend
In 2024/25, RFS members attended more than 32,739 incidents across the state.
| Incidents | 2024/25 |
|---|---|
| Bush/grass fires attended by NSW RFS | 7,217 |
| Structural fires | 1,378 |
| Motor vehicle fires | 2,274 |
| Motor vehicle accidents | 5,851 |
| Assist other agencies | 3,053 |
| Storm and flood | 114 |
| Total | 32,739 |
