The Tasmania Fire Service has teamed up with fire agencies from every state and territory to launch a free online training course designed to help workers prepare for bushfires.
The module was unveiled at the Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council conference this week.
It is aimed at workers who live, work, travel through or visit bushfire-prone areas, giving them a better understanding of bushfire risk and how to stay safe.
Tasmania Fire Service Director of Community Fire Safety Chris Collins said the training offers practical information relevant to a wide range of industries.
“Bushfires can impact people in many different workplaces and environments, not just those directly involved in emergency response or land management,” he said.
“This training gives workers the knowledge and confidence to better understand bushfire risk, prepare for changing conditions and make safer decisions before and during the bushfire season.”
While the course is primarily designed for workers, it also provides useful guidance for managers and employers looking to strengthen safety practices and support emergency planning.
Collins said organisations should consider building the training into workplace health and safety programs and staff induction processes.
“Employers have an important role to play in helping staff understand and manage bushfire risk,” he said.
“Including bushfire awareness training as part of workplace safety programs can support better preparedness and help create safer workplaces and communities.”
The course takes around 45 minutes to an hour to complete and can be accessed on desktops, tablets and smartphones.
It is available through the Tasmania Fire Service website.
