Encouraging Hunter women and girls to join emergency services

THE NSW Government is encouraging young women and girls in the Hunter to seek opportunities in emergency services through the Girls on Fire program.

Girls on Fire received over $180,000 in funding under the government’s Investing in Women grants, to provide teenage girls in regional and remote areas with a hands-on, practical program of what it’s like working in emergency services.

The nine-week program includes training in real-world fire and emergency skills, disaster preparedness across urban fire, bushfire, flood and climatic impact, and support with applications to volunteer or work with emergency agencies.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison dropped in on a workshop in the Hunter last week and observed the impact the program has had building local girls’ leadership skills and confidence.

The program has run successfully in South Western Sydney, Casino, Moree, Walgett, Wilcannia, Tamworth and Albury, and has now made its way to Newcastle and the Hunter.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said, “Welcoming this program to the region is a proud moment for the Hunter and a big step toward getting more women into our emergency services which are so vital to our communities.

“We know the calibre of women in the Hunter – strong, capable and committed to their communities – and those qualities are what these roles require.

“When more women are there in the hardest moments of people’s lives, we’re building a frontline that better reflects the community it serves and delivers the kind of support that really matters.

“This program is about backing local women in and giving them the opportunity to step forward.”

Girls on Fire CEO Bronnie Mackintosh said, “The nine-week Vocational Pathways Program gives young women the time, space and support to build real confidence, develop practical skills and see themselves as capable leaders.

“It’s not just a one-day experience – it’s a journey that creates lasting impact, stronger connections, and genuine pathways into future opportunities.

“The program highlights the importance of creating pathways, building confidence and investing in regional young people so they can see what is possible for their future.”

Some 500 girls have so far participated in the program.