Recognising the role of women in the NSW RFS

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said the NSW RFS has one of the highest percentages of women of Australian emergency services however there is more work to do.

"Women have for a long time played a critical role in the NSW RFS and you only need to look at the current flood emergency to see the importance of their work," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

"Each year, there's a growing number of women who are choosing to become part of an organisation that is dedicated to the community.

"Today, around 26 percent of our volunteer membership, and just over 30 percent of our salaried members are female.

"International Women's Day is an opportunity to recognise the roles women fulfil, from firefighting and leadership to training and communications.

"Our female members come from all backgrounds and circumstances. They live on the coast, in the city, and in remote outback areas.

"Some are students, some are in the workforce, others are retired – but what they all have in common is a dedication to their role and their commitment to serving their communities," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

The NSW RFS has recently recognised the role of women with the publication 'Making a Difference: Women in the NSW Rural Fire Service', available from www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.