VISION, MISSION AND VALUES contents
OUR VISION VALUES Overview To provide a world standard of excellence The values that underpin all our IFC Key facts in the provision of a community-based fire actions are: Snapshot and emergency service. 01 Vision, mission and values Our People Commissioner’s letter OUR MISSION Volunteerism and commitment 02 Key statistics 03 Who we are and what we do To protect the community and our Professionalism Key stakeholders and customers environment we will minimise the In all we do 04 Commissioner’s report impact of fire and other emergencies by Community providing the highest standards of training, GOVERNANCE Mutual assistance community education, prevention and 08 Governance operational capability. Quality Customer Service 10 Principal officers Internal and external 13 Office access details Organisational structure Continuous Improvement Co-operation review of the reporting year Honesty, Integrity and Trust 16 Administration and Finance Ethical standards and behaviour 19 Operations and Regional Management 20 Year in the regions: East 24 Year in the regions: North 26 Year in the regions: South 28 Year in the regions: West 31 Operations Support 35 Community Safety 40 Strategic Development performance
The Hon Tony Kelly MLC 44 Our performance Minister for Emergency Services 45 Management
Level 34, Governor Macquarie Tower 48 Community Safety 1 Farrer Place 50 Learning and Development SYDNEY NSW 2000 51 Operations financial statements 56 Independent audit report 57 Statement by the Commissioner 58 Balance sheet Dear Minister 59 Operating statement I have pleasure in submitting to you for presentation to Parliament the Annual Report 60 Statement of changes in equity of NSW Rural Fire Service for the year ended 30 June 2006. 61 Cash flow statement VISION, MISSIONHighlights AND of VALUESthe year included 62 Program statement – expenses and revenues • Allocation of $27.4M for the purchase of 230 new and refurbished tankers 64 Summary of compliance with • 88% of districts have established Bush FireWise programmes financial directives 65 Notes to the financial statements • All districts have Bush Fire Risk Management Plans • All districts have Operational Plans appendices • 50% of brigade stations audited 86 Organisation chart 87 Chaplaincy and Family Support network • 86% of paper purchased had recycled content 88 Hazard Reduction • 5,275 membership applications processed 90 Bush Fire Risk Management Plans – • 298 applications for junior membership processed performance audits 91 Use of credit cards • Implementation of Bush Fire Environmental Assessment Code 92 Equal Opportunity statistics • 85% of volunteers now qualified Basic Bush Firefighting. Staff establishment Annual Reports (Departments) 93 Freedom of Information statistics The report has been prepared in accordance with the and the Waste Avoidance and Waste 96 Allocations to councils 2005/2006 – Act, 1985, the Public Finance and Audit Act, 1983 Recovery Act, 2001. in regional order 97 Payment Performance Yours sincerely 98 Current publications 99 Statement of Performance of Commissioner 100 Committees 102 International travel 103 Glossary 104 Index
Phil Koperberg AO AFSM BEM Commissioner
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 key statistics
05/06 04/05 03/04 Funding $M140 $M134 $M125 Brigades 2,100 2,069 2,094 Districts 126 128 132 Zones/Teams 38 39 37 Our people Volunteers 70,745 70,964 69,375 Salaried support and administration 680 649 601 Incidents Total number of incidents 19,590 17,342 18,812 Bush fires 2,865 2,659 1,764 Grassfires 3,888 3,533 3,844 Building fires 951 949 206 Vehicle fires 1,525 1,166 1,491 Motor vehicle accidents 3,225 2,289 3,152 False alarms 2,028 1,896 1,271 Other 5,108 4,850 7,084 Buildings Headquarters 1 1 1 Regional Offices 4 4 4 Tankers Number of new and refurbished tankers delivered to brigades 230 210 205 Vehicles Current fleet including marine craft Tankers 3,927 Pumpers 58 Bulk Water units 52 Trailer pumps 2,109 Cargo, tip trucks, various trailers 83 Communications vehicles and trailers 36 Catering vehicles and trailers 64 Marine 19 Slip on trailers and miscellaneous 1,502 Communications Radios 19,800
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO
Over 100 years ago the residents of The role of volunteer fire brigades the south-western New South Wales encompasses far more than fighting and township of Berrigan formed Australia’s preventing bush fires – for which they first official bush fire brigade. The residents are best known. Volunteer firefighters are joined together as firefighters for mutual regularly called upon to attend building and protection against the ever-present threat structure fires, motor vehicle accidents, of bush fires. assist in search and rescue operations and help with storm and flood recovery. On 1 September 1997 the NSW Rural The Service is responsible for structural Fire Service (RFS) was established by firefighting in more than 1,200 towns an Act of Parliament as the successor to and villages across the state. that first bush fire brigade, redefining the world’s largest fire service and building on Brigade members are all volunteers and ESTABLISHED IN 1997 a century of experience in protecting some come from all walks of life. They are 70,000 volunteers of the most fire-prone areas on earth. community minded, having the volunteer spirit of service, combined with a Today the Service comprises over 2,100 professional approach to the protection 2,100 rural towns and volunteer rural fire brigades with a total of life and property within the community. villages protected membership of just over 70,000. In addition, salaried staff are employed to As a matter of daily routine we also work manage the day to day operations of closely and collaboratively with the media, the Service at Headquarters, regional government departments, rural land offices and district fire control centres. managers, local government and schools. Staff carry out a variety of roles including operational management, administration, finance, planning, training, hazard reduction management, and engineering.
key stakeholders and customers
Our customers: • The people of New South Wales • Our volunteers and staff
Our stakeholders: • The people of New South Wales • The Insurance Industry • Local Government • Other emergency services • Other Government agencies • The Government of New South Wales
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 Commissioner’s report
The fifth year of drought across the Should this come to pass it will mean landscape produced a series of intense a greater reliance on other aspects of fires in the Central Coast, Central West fire mitigation, such as manual hazard and Central South areas of the state that reduction works, community education, resulted in property and stock losses. and suppression through the deployment Though losses were confined to these of the modernised tanker fleet and the areas, in what was otherwise a typical fire use of aircraft. season, volunteer firefighters were tested Development control in bush fire prone owing to the weather conditions which areas will also help to maximise the level resulted in record temperatures for of protection for new or significantly January along the eastern seaboard. renovated properties. In these increasingly I can never stress enough the gratitude important areas the Environmental I can never stress I have for the tirelessness and Assessment Code was reviewed and enough the gratitude professionalism of the Rural Fire implemented in order to streamline I have for the Service’s volunteer firefighters. approvals for hazard reduction works. Firefighting, however, needs to be To help educate children about living with tirelessness and coordinated through rigorous planning. bush fires 88% of all rural fire districts Operations Plans are in place in all rural have established Bush FireWise community professionalism of fire districts, (100%), as are Bush Fire education programmes. Additionally, the Rural Fire Service’s Risk Management Plans, (100%). These 291 schools undertook the Kids FireWise important documents provide direction and programme. volunteer firefighters. strategies for districts and brigades. One of the most innovative programmes They also highlight the bush fire threat and this year was the development and trial of where hazards are located, enabling hazard a school based cadet programme designed reduction planning to occur. The weather for 15 to 16 year old students who learn that produced record temperatures also about fire behaviour and firefighting but produced rainfall over much of the state also team work, leadership and a sense of that was nowhere near enough to end community. Trialled in five high schools this the drought but sufficient to delay and year it is expected that the programme will frustrate hazard reduction work. expand. It has the potential to create a new generation of fire aware citizens and may The prospect of climate change may well also produce the volunteer firefighters bring more days of extreme fire weather of tomorrow. to parts of the state but current predictions also indicate that the hazard reduction People wishing to join the Service or season will shrink and shift to the winter transfer between brigades now have to months only, thus further restricting have a criminal history check undertaken. our ability to conduct this work in a In 2005/6 the Service undertook 5,275 narrower window of opportunity than such checks while a further 1,923 checks we currently have. were made in respect to members involved with child related activities.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 Investigations were conducted into 97% of I would also like to acknowledge and 88% of all rural fires where the Fire Investigation Unit was thank, for the support both personally and fire districts have requested to do so. professionally, the Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon Tony Kelly. Similarly The Service complied with the State established Bush I would like to thank, Richard Lyons, Government’s 85% target of recyclable Director, Office of Emergency Services FireWise community materials to meet the waste reduction and his staff for the support and guidance programme initiative and improved the they have provided throughout the year. education programmes. cost effectiveness of the RFS passenger Additionally, 291 schools fleet through a new fleet management programme and evaluation of performance undertook the Kids of all vehicles. FireWise programme. To further support our volunteers $34.256M was directed to the tanker build programme resulting in 260 additional units being delivered. To ensure that our brigades and their equipment are adequately housed, Phil Koperberg AO AFSM BEM an audit of all fire stations was commenced, Commissioner (with 50% audited during the year). The full audit will be completed next year. The Service has evolved to be the principal coordinating agency for all bush fire fighting and management and has also become a regulatory authority in terms of development control. The NSW Government has been extremely supportive of the expanding role of the Service, demonstrated through the increased level of funding again this year. The arduous nature of our work would not be possible without the dedication and professionalism of the staff and volunteers of the Service, and I place on record my thanks to them.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 shirley glover clerk prospect FIREFIGHTER VOLUNTEER FOR 5 YEARS
As a volunteer I’ve had the opportunity to help others and really give something back to my local community. I’ve also made friends for life, it’s a great feeling.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 GOVERNANCE 02
08 GOVERNANCE 10 PRINCIPAL OFFICERS 13 OFFICE ACCESS DETAILS 13 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 GOVERnance
Our management and operational The BFCC is responsible for planning in responsibilities are set down clearly in relation to fire prevention and coordinated the Rural Fires Act, 1997 and can be bush firefighting as well as for advising the summarised as follows: Commissioner on bush fire prevention, mitigation and coordinated bush fire • Protection of life, property and the suppression. The Committee has such environment for all fire related incidents other functions as are conferred or within all rural fire districts in the State imposed upon it by or under the Rural • Safety and welfare of all volunteers Fires Act, 1997 or any other Act. In carrying out any function that affects the • Provision of effective training and environment the Committee must have resources to rural fire brigades regard to the principles of ecologically • Provision of emergency assistance to sustainable development described in other emergency service organisations. section 6(2) of the Protection of the Environment Administration Act, 1991. The three major bodies that primarily govern the operations of the Service are Additionally the Committee must report to the Rural Fire Service Advisory Council the Minister on any matter referred by the (RFSAC), the Bush Fire Coordinating Minister and may report on any matter Committee (BFCC) and the Fire Services relating to the prevention and suppression Joint Standing Committee (FSJSC). of bush fires, whether referred to it or not. Further, the Committee may enter into The Service provides the Secretariat for arrangements with the Minister for Lands the BFCC, the peak planning body for and Water Conservation or any public bush fire management in New South authority with respect to the reduction Wales. The Commissioner has an over of bush fire hazards. arching co-ordinating role and chairs the Committee. The Fire Services Joint Standing Committee Act, 1998 provides legislative RFSAC has the following functions support for the work of the FSJSC. • Advising and reporting to the Minister The Committee’s work of co-ordinating and the Commissioner on any matter the activities of the fire services was relating to the administration of rural fire supported by the Service’s representatives, services under the Rural Fires Act, 1997 Commissioner PC Koperberg AO AFSM • Advising the Commissioner on public BEM and Chief Superintendent education programmes relating to rural S Midgley AFSM. fire matters and on the training of rural Day to day management of the Service firefighters is carried on under the direction of the • Advising the Commissioner on the Corporate Executive Group (CEG) that issue of Service Standards, and consists of senior managers of the Service and representatives of the NSW Rural Fire • Such other functions as may be Service Association. conferred or imposed upon it by or under the Rural Fires Act, 1997. Details of representation and member attendances at all of these bodies are set out in Appendix ‘N’.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 The Service is also represented on a • GRN Joint Management Board number of external organisations by – Department of Commerce Day to day management various staff members including: • Museum Education Officers’ Group of the Service is carried • Australasian Fire Authorities Council • National Aerial Firefighting Centre on under the direction and its various committees • NSW Health Disaster Management of the Corporate • Association of Environment Education Committee (NSW) Executive Group (CEG) • Public Sector Occupational Health and • Border Liaison Committees Safety Group that consists of senior • Bush Fire Cooperative Research Centre • Standards Australia – various managers of the Service • District Emergency Management committees and representatives Committees • State Emergency Management • District Rescue Committees Committee of the NSW Rural Fire • Emergency Services Communications • State Rescue Board. Service Association. Working Party All day to day activities of the Service • Emergency Services Industry Reference are supported by the Service’s Code of Group Conduct which applies to volunteers and salaried staff alike. There were no changes • Emergency Services Personnel Support to the Code during the reporting period. Advisory Group • Environmental Education Officers’ Group • Fire Protection Association
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 GOVERnance PRINCIPAl OFFICERS
Commissioner Acting Chief of Staff Executive Director Operations Phil Koperberg AO AFSM BEM Mark Sullivan and Regional Management Mr Koperberg joined the Service in 1967 Mr Sullivan manages the operation of the Mark Crosweller AFSM as a volunteer in the Blue Mountains and Office of the Commissioner, providing Mr Crosweller has held various positions progressed through the ranks to become expert advice and support to the in the Service ranging from firefighter to Fire Control Officer in 1970, a position he Commissioner and Executive in the Assistant Commissioner. He was a member held until 1982. He was appointed an management and resolution of critical of the Review Sub-Committee of the Fire emergency services policy analyst to the policy and operations issues impacting Services Joint Standing Committee; a then Minister for Police and Emergency on the Service. State Council and Executive Member of Services before being appointed Chairman the NSW Rural Fire Service Association; Mr Sullivan joined the RFS in 1998, after of the Bush Fire Council of NSW and a member of the State Executive of that many years in the NSW Police and local Executive Officer of the Bush Fires Branch Association, and a member of the Bush government. He was integrally involved of the Minister’s office in 1985. Fire Coordinating Committee. in the changes which saw, among other In 1989 he was appointed Director- critical things, State Government Prior to joining the Service Mr Crosweller General of the Department of Bush Fire employment of local government fire was employed in the consulting Services and in 1993 he was appointed control staff. engineering industry. He holds a graduate Commissioner of Bush Fire Services. In certificate, graduate diploma and Master Mr Sullivan has held senior roles in policy, January 1994 he was appointed overall of Management degree. with his substantive position being that of emergency controller for major bush fires Director-Regional Management. He was awarded the Australian Fire burning in eastern NSW and, in September Service Medal in 2003. 1997, he was appointed Chief Executive Mr Sullivan was awarded the National Officer and Commissioner of the NSW Medal for Service and he holds a Rural Fire Service. Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Business Administration. Among his many roles, the Commissioner is Chair of the NSW Rural Fire Service Advisory Council, Bush Fire Coordinating Committee and the State Rescue Board. He was awarded the British Empire Medal in 1978, made a Member of the Order of Australia in 1994, awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal in 1995 and made an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2003.
10 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 Executive Director Strategic Executive Director Community Executive Director Operations Development Safety Support (Pre-December 2005) Shane Fitzsimmons AFSM Rob Rogers AFSM Tony Howe AFSM (Retired) Mr Fitzsimmons has been a member of the Mr Rogers joined the Service in 1979 as Mr Howe joined the Service in 1999 Service since 1984 when he joined the a member of the Belrose Brigade in the as Assistant Commissioner Operations Duffy’s Forest Brigade and where he Warringah-Pittwater District where he Support. remained as a member for ten years, at remained until 1995. During that time he Prior to joining the Service Mr Howe was various times holding the positions of held various Brigade positions including employed as a forester by the NSW Captain and Deputy Group Captain. those of training officer, Deputy Captain Forestry Commission. He has extensive and Captain. In 1994 he was appointed Regional experience in forest and land management Planning Officer in Central East Region, In 1995 Mr Rogers was appointed Deputy across NSW in native eucalypt forest, eventually progressing to the position of Fire Control officer for the Greater Taree rainforest, exotic pine and eucalypt Regional Coordinator before being District, a position he held until 1998 when plantations in Tumut, Grafton and Eden. appointed State Operations Officer. he was appointed Fire Control Officer for Mr Howe was involved in practical fire In 1998 Mr Fitzsimmons was appointed the Cessnock District. In 2002 he was management for more than 30 years and Assistant Commissioner Operations. appointed Executive Director for Regional was responsible for the Commission’s state Management but later that year transferred wide fire policies and strategies. He was awarded the Australian Fire to the newly created Risk Management Service Medal in 2001. Mr Howe holds a Bachelor’s degree in Directorate that had been formed as a Forestry and was awarded the Australian consequence of new legislative Fire Service Medal in 2004. responsibilities that had been devolved to the Service. Mr Howe retired in December 2005. He was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal in 2004.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 11 GOVERnance PRINCIPAL OFFICERS
Executive Director Executive Director Operations Director of Finance Administration and Finance Support (post December 2005) Peter Hennessy Trevor Anderson PSM Keith Harrap AFSM Mr Hennessy has been employed in the Mr Anderson entered the NSW Public Mr Harrap joined the Service as a member NSW Public Service since 1969 where Service in 1966 and in 1979 was of Ku-ring-gai Brigade in 1968 and has most of his previous positions were appointed Secretary to the Bush Fire held various positions ranging from associated with financial budgeting Council which, at that time, was a branch volunteer to Assistant Commissioner. and monitoring. of the Department of Services. Mr Harrap was appointed as Deputy Fire Prior to joining the Service in 1988 he He later transferred to the Office of the Control Officer for Hornsby/Ku-ring-gai worked for 19 years in the Department of Minister for Police and Emergency in 1988 and then as Fire Control Officer Health and one year in the Department Services. Following the establishment of in 1993. of Lands. the Department of Bush Fire Services as From 2001 to 2004 he held consecutively Mr Hennessy’s positions in the public a separate department Mr Anderson was the positions of Staff Officer and Acting sector have all been associated with appointed Assistant Commissioner Executive Director Operations Support. financial budgeting and monitoring. Corporate Services and later Executive In 2004 he was appointed to the position Director Corporate Services. A further Mr Hennessy has responsibility for the of Executive Director, Corporate realignment of duties saw Mr Anderson financial and accounting functions of Communications. appointed Executive Director the Service. Administration and Finance. Mr Harrap was elected to the position of Vice President (Salaried Officers) of the In 1995 Mr Anderson was awarded the Rural Fire Service Association (RFSA) Public Service Medal under the Australian in 1994 and held that position for Honours for outstanding public service three years. in NSW. He is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and a Director of the International Association of Wildland Fire (IAWF). He is also an international representative on the IAFC Wildland Fire Policy Committee. Mr Harrap was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal in 1999.
12 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 Rural fire regions and office access details
Region East Region South Headquarters 15 Carter Street 7-9 Kylie Crescent 15 Carter Street Homebush Bay Batemans Bay Homebush Bay NSW 2127 NSW 2536 NSW 2127 Tel 02 8741 5555 Tel 02 4472 4615 Tel 02 8741 5555 Fax 02 8741 5550 Fax 02 4472 4126 Fax 02 8741 5550
Region North Region West Office hours at all locations are 0845-1700 hours, Mondays to Fridays. Level 4, State Office Block Shop 3, Lovell Place Victoria Street Lovell Street Grafton Young NSW 2460 NSW 2594 Tel 02 6643 2512 Tel 02 6382 5677 or Fax 02 6643 2515 02 6382 5678 Fax 02 6382 1731 organisational structure
The functional organisational chart is shown at Appendix ‘A’. – Minister for Emergency Services – Commissioner – Salaried Staff – Fire Control Officers – Rural Fire Brigades (2,100) – Group Captains* – Captains* – Senior Deputy Captains* – Deputy Captains* – Members*
* Volunteers (70,745)
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 13 christopher fedczyna elevator techniCian trainee VOLUNTEER FOR 4 YEARS
I live just up the road from the station and my Dad has always been a volunteer. I have always had an interest and enjoy getting involved and being part of a team. It’s great to be able to help my local community.
14 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 review of the reporting year 03
16 ADMINISTRATION and finance 19 OPERATIONS AND REGIONAL MANAGEMENT 20 THE YEAR IN REGIONS 20 EAST 24 NORTH 26 SOUTH 28 WEST 31 OPERATIONS SUPPORT 35 COMMUNITY SAFETY 40 STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 15 administration and finance
During the year under review, considerable In addition, a new, more efficient vehicle focus was given to staff development fleet management system – Fleetwave and training and the professional – was rolled out across the Service. development committee was extremely Fleetwave allows the Service to better active in identifying the needs of individual manage its fleet, fuel consumption, employees. Additional funding was maintenance and vehicle replacement provided to enable an increase in both schedules. It also provides an on-line internal and external courses. booking capability for pool vehicles. Public Sector recruitment procedures Office documentation systems were were followed in all cases to ensure that maintained as required by the State merit based selection criteria were met. Records Act, 1998. Electronic document In addition, a new, more Variations to salary awards and conditions management of all coronial inquiry, legal efficient vehicle fleet were processed expeditiously in addition and litigation material is being introduced to allowance variations. next year. management system – A new policy was adopted for fleet In accordance with the NSW Waste Fleetwave – was rolled management to ensure that the Reduction and Purchasing Policy Government’s criteria for greenhouse (WRAPP) the Service recycled all out across the Service. gas emissions was met. cardboard products, identified and marked recycle collection points, As in previous years, the Service’s established commingled (including paper commitment to Chaplaincy and family recycling) collection points throughout support was a high priority. the headquarters building, and recycled Administrative Services computer processing units and monitors as required by the Government’s Reconnect Over the last year the Service continued Programme. During the WRAPP review with its efforts to reduce total energy period the Service recycled: consumption and purchased 6% green power. In addition other initiatives • 3.47 tonnes of paper introduced during the year included: • 1.15 tonnes of cardboard • Use of energy efficient flat screen • 132 toner cartridges technology • 34 computer processing units, and • A substantial increase in double-sided printing • 34 computer monitors. • An increase in the number of smaller At the same time 2,810 reams of A4 paper more fuel efficient cars in the Service’s were purchased of which 2,440 (86.8%) vehicle fleet to replace larger, higher had recycled content, compared to 26% in greenhouse gas emission, less fuel the previous year. efficient vehicles. Financial Services In line with the National Greenhouse For the 2005/06 financial year funding strategy, which requires governments to for the Service was set at $140.2m and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from individual councils were notified of their their own operations, the Service’s new allocations in October 2005. headquarters at Homebush Bay is energy efficient having a Sustainable Energy Development Authority 4.5 star tenancy rating.
16 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 The Audit Office provided an unqualified The Service worked closely with AFAC, audit report for the 05/06 financial year NSWFB and the SES to achieve Firefighting Pumps – the and no adverse comments were received aggregated purchasing outcomes. new contract for major from internal audits conducted throughout This process will continue into 06/07 the year. and will be included in the Service’s firefighting pumps will Procurement Plan. More than 5000 electronic purchase provide the Service with requisitions for various types of equipment, Staff Services specifically firefighting equipment, were updated technology in The Service’s draft Human Resource processed, a significant increase on Strategic Plan was released for this field. previous years. The purchasing system stakeholder consultation in June and continued to provide improved delivery will be formalised by the Service’s CEG times of equipment to Districts with lead- in September. times for all major suppliers reduced. The average processing time for The Service began the implementation of requisitions was 48 hours – within our an electronic self service system (HR21) customer service commitments. enabling all staff to apply for leave and amend personal and banking details The Service arranged contracts for the on line as required. Development of the following items: system followed a series of consultative • Category 1, 2 and 11 appliances forums, auditing of reporting arrangements – these are the major appliances and the development of appropriate for rural firefighting. New contracts documentation. Full implementation of the were awarded to mainly small and system is scheduled to occur before the medium enterprises with the majority end of 2006. of contractors located outside the Work began on the establishment of a Sydney metropolitan area Service-wide qualifications database on • Major firefighting equipment the Human Resources Information System – incorporating hoses, nozzles, ladders, and there will be a training and skills needs foam and major firefighting accessories. analysis to identify any additional training This contract integrated the needs of required by Service staff to carry out their both the RFS and NSWFB to achieve duties effectively. a cohesive approach and cost-saving benefits to both services. • Firefighting Pumps – the new contract for major firefighting pumps will provide the Service with updated technology in this field.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 17 administration and finance
The Service maintained and enhanced its bush fire community language publications in twelve different languages on the Service’s website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au Under its Code of Conduct the Service is committed to the highest level of ethical behaviour and satisfactory conduct being displayed at all times. To this end, numerous strategies have been developed to ensure that staff are fully aware of the expectations of the Service during their employment. The Service’s Disability Action Plan complies fully with legislative requirements especially those relating to the access and use of premises or buildings by disabled persons.
Chaplaincy The Chaplaincy and Family Support Under the general banner of the Service’s Network continued to provide a proactive The Chaplaincy and Action Plan for Women the Service’s and reactive response throughout the year. Spokeswomen’s Programme funded a Family Support Network The chaplaincy has become an integral distance education Certificate III and IV part of many rural brigades, their members continued to provide a business administration course, facilitated and their families. proactive and reactive by the Riverina Institute of TAFE, for twenty staff of whom eighteen are female. Twenty- Seven new chaplains were inducted into response throughout six students from an earlier 2005 course the Service and, as a consequence of graduated at the Service’s headquarters on clergy transfers, five relinquished their the year. 20 March 2006. roles. As at 30 June 2006 the Chaplaincy Service consisted of a Senior Chaplain, The Service also sponsored a number Senior Family Support Chaplain, 49 of initiatives to support women in the volunteer district chaplains and eight family workplace: support volunteers. • International Women’s Day Breakfast – Vacancies exist at Bathurst, Hawkesbury, nine female staff and Executive Director Harden, Orange, Gosford, Nambucca, Administration and Finance attended; Tamworth and Ballina with four being in • National Women in Firefighting the process of being filled. Conference – five female staff and ten The continuing drought conditions have female volunteers; resulted in the Family Support Network • Administrative Assistants’ Conference working alongside Service members’ – ten female staff attended; and families to respond to the need for continuing visitation with information • ‘Personal Best’ course facilitated through and handouts. the University of Sydney and attended by forty female staff. Our chaplains travelled 70,128 kilometres during the year compared with 91,829 In the area of Ethnic Affairs, the Service kilometres in 2004/05 and 81,390 participated with Blacktown TAFE in the kilometres in 2003/04. development of an Ongoing Conversational English programme providing content material for booklets in the study of conversational learning for people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
18 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 operations and regional management
State Operations The Memorandum of Understanding Aviation The State Operations Centre (SOC) between the Service and NSWFB was Fixed and rotary wing aircraft continued is responsible for the coordination, completed and formally signed by the to play a significant role supporting dissemination and display of operational Minister and the two Commissioners in firefighting operations with NSW based intelligence for fire and emergency August 2005. aircraft and Service aviation specialists incidents across NSW and provides The draft Safe Working on Roads Standard also being deployed both to Victoria and operational, logistics and resource Operating Procedures were finalised and South Australia to assisting in firefighting support to Rural Fire Districts. promulgated to all brigades and the draft in those states. During the year the Centre was Safe Driving SOPs were also released The Service continued to develop responsible for the overall coordination of for comment. relationships with other agencies in NSW 38 emergency declarations under section and other states and through membership Fire Investigation 44 of the Rural Fires Act, 1997 involving of the National Aerial Firefighting Centre 74 local government areas. Approximately Funding provided under the Joint State continued to contribute to the development 92,613 hectares of land of all types were and Commonwealth Natural Disaster of national standards of safety and best burnt during these emergencies. Last year Mitigation Programme has enabled the practice in aviation management. 16,300 hectares of land were burnt Service to enhance fire investigation data during 20 emergencies. collated by investigators. This has resulted Service Membership Unit in the development of a mapping database Following the July 2005 release of a new Total fire bans were declared on 24 days, to enable investigators to utilise maps Service Standard - ‘Child Related Activities’ with five being statewide. located on the Service’s ICON database – 1,923 national criminal history record The SOC is a focal point for senior to generate fire investigation scene checks (NCHRC) were processed through personnel from other fire authorities documentation. the Unit. as well as liaison staff from Police, Two permanent Fire Investigation Altogether the Unit processed 5,275 Ambulance, State Emergency Service, Coordinator positions were moved to membership applications (including 1,923 Bureau of Meteorology, Department of Regions East and West respectively NCHRC) for new, dual, transferring and Defence, infrastructure (Department of ensuring the delivery of investigation rejoining members, against a target Public Works and Services, roads, railways, expertise is more closely aligned to level 4,000. telecommunications, water and electricity Regional and District needs. authorities) and welfare providers (such as Of great satisfaction was that 298 Department of Community Services and At the invitation of the International applications were processed from young the Salvation Army). Association of Arson Investigators the people wishing to become junior members Service’s Manager Fire Investigation of the Service. Staff of the SOC conducted more than attended and presented a paper at the 25 tours of the Centre with an informative Denver International Conference in the explanation of the Service’s operational United States. Discussions were held with management as well as the state-of- key lead agencies in relation to the training the-art technology being used. Many of of wildfire investigators in investigation these were for NSW, other state, federal management as well as the future or international agencies which were directions concerning wildfire investigation researching better methods of conducting within the National Wildfire Coordinating their own business. Other visitors included Group on which the Service holds a key Probus, school and brigade groups. position. The Sydney Safety Site Marshal Fire investigators provided evidence to the programme was established with 110 Alectown Bush Fire Coronial relating to Service personnel to assist Police in the the extensive bush fire that affected the management of safety sites as detailed in Parkes area in 2004. the Sydney CBD Emergency Sub-Plan.
Of great satisfaction was that 298 applications were processed from young people wishing to become junior members of the Service.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 19 the year in the regions region: east
NSW Overview – RFS Region/Districts/Zones for Region East
12
RREEGGIIOONN EEAA SSTT
13 14
0 15
16
17
23
18
19 20
22 21
KEYouth12. Manning Team 15. Hunter Team Hawkesbury 20. Sutherland Non-RFS Gloucester Cessnock Blue Mountains 21. Illawarra Team Greater Taree Maitland Warringah Kiama 13. Lower Hunter Zone 16. The Lakes Team Pittwater Shellharbour Dungog Lake Macquarie 18. Cumberland Zone Wollongong Great Lakes Wyong Blacktown 22. Highland Teams Port Stephens 17. (Stand Alone Districts) Fairfield Wingecarribee 14. Hunter Valley Team Gosford Penrith Wollondilly Muswellbrook Baulkham Hills 19. Macarthur Zone 23. Chifley Zone Singleton Hornsby Campbelltown Bathurst Ku-ring-gai Camden Oberon Liverpool Lithgow
20 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 Dry and mild conditions through spring Regional staff are formed into four units allowed the successful completion of each directly linked to the Service’s four significant areas of fuel hazard reduction Key Result Areas: which extended into October. These • Management activities were enhanced by a co-operative effort within the Region with tankers and • Operations crews being deployed across Districts. • Learning and Development, and Region East experienced serious fire • Community Safety. activity in December, with S44 declarations being proclaimed at Port Stephens and Management Muswellbrook, and on New Year’s Day The key management strategy for the Gosford, Wollondilly and Warringah Region is to support the provision of an experienced a bush fire emergency. A efficient and effective fire and emergency number of pre-emptive declarations were service through the implementation also made during December and January and continuous improvement of Service due to the forecast of poor fire weather planning, resourcing, management, work conditions. practices and reporting systems. The Region provided assistance to Region Some of the initiatives implemented West (Weddin) early in January, then to drive this strategy included: assisted the Victorian and South Australian efforts with large strike team deployments • Effective financial management of the and the movement of a very large number Region’s budget of volunteers by air to crew CFA tankers. Incident Management Team personnel • Achieving 100% compliance with target were also deployed to each of these states. management audits allocated through the Service’s Audit Plan A feature of the 05/06 season was the In all, the Region testing of the Region’s Major Incident • Identifying and facilitating opportunities deployed 22 strike Co-ordination capability and the successes for improved management performance of the various Zones/Teams and Districts through a programme of mentoring and teams within the Region, that were under siege with significant coaching staff 10 strike teams inter fires in the functioning of their respective • Enrolling 10 managers in the Public Incident Management Teams. Sector management programme region, one strike team In all, the Region deployed 22 strike teams • Conducting personal development to South Australia, within the Region, 10 strike teams inter training for 32 staff region, one strike team to South Australia, AND four strike teams and four strike teams and 216 additional • Annual regional conference. volunteers to Victoria. and 216 additional volunteers to Victoria.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 21 the year in the regions region: east
Operations Learning and Development The key operational strategy for the (L and D) Region is directed to the improvement of The key L and D strategy for the Region operational management by establishing, is to meet industry expectations and maintaining and improving a standardised government recognised requirements by incident response and management implementing the Public Safety Training infrastructure. package across the Service. Initiatives to drive this strategy included: During the year the Region initiated a series of programmes to support this • Coaching and mentoring operational strategy, including: personnel to ensure competency for assigned roles within incident • Development of a regional training plan management teams to identify and facilitate improved L and D performance • Achieving 90% compliance of operational audits allocated through the Service’s • Training seven staff in Certificate IV Audit Plan Training and Assessment • The provision of support/resources • Implementation and review of all District, for six emergency incidents declared Team and Zone training plans and under section 44 of the Rural Fires Act calendars including deployment to Victoria and • Conducting and managing 100% South Australia Recognition of Prior Learning • The completion of data capture for assessments the first round of the Standards of Volunteer training will • Participation of 179 Service members Fire Cover programme. in various training courses remain at the forefront • The issue of 258 training qualifications of regional activities covering a wide range of training programmes with an anticipated 10 • The conduct of three L and D volunteer training programmes and the review and approval of 13 self-assessment audits. courses as well as a regional exercise intended.
22 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 Community Safety Staff development will The major community safety strategy for the Region is based around the remain a high priority management of bush fire risk and the performance of fire operations and the programmes of and the linkages to District Bush Fire mentoring and training Risk Management Plans and Plans of Operations. staff will be enhanced. The Region underpinned this strategy through a series of initiatives including: • Achieving 100% compliance with Community Safety Audits allocated through the Service’s Audit Plan • Monitored, analysed and reported on 100% of District/Zone Bush Fire Risk Management Plans • Participated in 80% of regional Bush Fire Management Committees • Conducted quarterly regional community safety forums • Trained 100% relevant staff to facilitate and support the implementation of Planning for Bush fire Protection and associated publications.
Future directions The regional focus in 2006-07 will be to maintain and enhance internal and external stakeholder relationships. It is fully recognised that the maintenance of these relationships is critical to effective issues and information management. Staff development will remain a high priority and the programmes of mentoring and training staff will be enhanced. Volunteer training will remain at the forefront of regional activities with an anticipated 10 volunteer training courses as well as a regional exercise intended.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 23 the year in the regions region: NORTH
NSW Overview – RFS Region/Districts/Zones for Region NORTH
1
2
6
8 3
4
7
9
5
11 10
KEY 1. Far North Coast Zone 4. Mid North Coast Team 7. New England Zone 9. Tamworth Regional Ballina Bellingen Armidale Dumaresq 10. Liverpool Range Zone Byron Coffs Harbour Guyra Gunnedah Tweed 5. Lower North Coast Team Uralla Liverpool Plains 2. Northern Rivers Nambucca Walcha Upper Hunter Kyogle Kempsey 8. Namoi / Gwydir Team 11. Castlereagh Zone Lismore Hastings Moree Plains Warrumbungle Richmond Valley 6. Northern Tablelands Team Narrabri Gilgandra 3. Clarence Valley Inverell Gwydir Glen Innes Severn Tenterfield
24 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 Dry conditions across the Region coupled All Zones/Teams have established Thirty-five specialised volunteer training with low rainfall and lightning strikes in community education strategies linked activities were conducted in conjunction October 2005 and January 2006 caused both to Bush Fire Risk Management with the Region’s three Training Assistance major fire problems. Plans and RFS Business Plans and with Groups (TAGs) with emphasis being appropriate resource allocation. on increasing numbers of Trainers Emergency declarations under Section and Assessors. Funding provided to 44 of the Rural Fires Act were made for To support Education Coordinators a TAGs enabled them to meet identified Coffs Harbour/Bellingen, Narrabri and further two Community Education trailers deficiencies in higher level training. Nambucca/Kempsey/Hastings local – located at Tweed and Hastings – were One third of the Region’s Learning and government areas with strike teams, commissioned. Development Officers have now completed incident management personnel and To improve fire response in the community, the upgraded Certificate IV Training and aircraft support deployed from within NSWFB Mutual Aid Agreements are under Assessment requirement with all officers the Region for resource support. review for all Districts. For operational targeted for course completion in 2006. In January 2006, nineteen staff and support, 85% of Mutual Aid Agreements To continue the improvement of volunteers travelled to western Victoria with SES were completed with the coordination and management of as part of an interstate task force. remainder awaiting SES approval. resources and exercise operational skills Under the Service Annual Audit schedule of firefighters and Incident Management eleven Zones and Teams were audited Teams a two day practical regional field for compliance in the functional areas exercise, involving over 450 personnel, of Community Safety and Operations. and 90 operational vehicles, was held. Separate audits of Learning and Development were conducted as part of compliance with National Training Standards. Business planning, and five year tanker In January 2006, nineteen staff and volunteers procurement and station build programmes travelled to western Victoria as part of an were established for all Zones/Teams, with Rural Fire District Service Level interstate task force. Agreements in place for all LGAs. Resource sharing across Districts has proved beneficial and the New England Zone was formed with Armidale Dumaresq, Walcha, Guyra and Uralla Districts. Two border liaison meetings were held during the year, and to test the Border Fire Plan an exercise was held for effective wildfire management and liaison for fire services and agencies operating within 10 kilometres of the NSW Queensland Border from Mungindi to Tweed Heads. New Fire Control Centres (FCC) at Clarence Valley and Narrabri were completed with extensions scheduled for Willow Tree FCC and planning for Coffs Harbour FCC under way.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 25 the year in the regions region: SOUTH
NSW Overview – RFS Region/Districts/Zones for Region south
35
32 26
30
33 24
27
31 29 34
28 25
KEY 24. Shoalhaven 28. Monaro Team 31. Hume Zone 34. Corowa Berrigan Zone 25. Far South Coast Team Bombala Albury Corowa Bega Valley Cooma-Monaro Greater Hume Berrigan Eurobodalla Snowy River 32. MIA Zone 35. Lower Western Zone 26. Southern Tablelands Zone 29. Riverina Highlands Zone Murrumbidgee Wentworth Yass Valley Gundagai Griffith Balranald Goulburn Mulwaree Tumbarumba Leeton Upper Lachlan Tumut Narrandera 27. Lake George Zone 30. Riverina Zone 33. Mid Murray Zone Non-RFS Greater Queanbeyan Urana Conargo Palerang Lockhart Deniliquin Wagga Wagga Jerilderie Coolamon Murray Junee Wakool
26 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 The Region experienced a relatively busy fire season due to a high grassland fire Sixteen strike teams were also tasked to Victoria danger, with the focus of the season and South Australia to assist the Country Fire being in the central and western parts of the Region. Authority and Country Fire Service Emergency declarations under Section 44 of the Rural Fires Act were made for the In addition, 11 will be undertaking The Region continued to place an Junee, Wagga Wagga/Greater Hume and a Diploma in Business, Frontline increased focus on intra-Region Upper Lachlan local government areas, Management. communication as well as with a range of stakeholders. This included a number with one pre-emptive declaration made Six Regional staff attended two ICAC of forums held throughout the Region, for Shoalhaven. Resources were provided Workshops during the year covering comprising: predominantly from the Region with corruption prevention and fact finding. assistance from Regions West and East. • Group Officers’ Annual Conference held The Region undertook 11 internal audits at Narrandera 27/28 July 2005 attended Sixteen strike teams were also tasked for the Learning and Development, by 42 Group Captains and Deputy Group to Victoria and South Australia to assist Community Safety, Operations and Captains representing each of the the Country Fire Authority and Country Management functions during the year. 12 Districts/Zones Fire Service with property protection as a The outcomes will allow a more consistent result of fires in the Grampians and East approach to issues by Zones/Team, in line • Incident Management Workshop held Gippsland areas. Crews were also placed with corporate policies and standards. at Yass 9/10 August 2005. Attended on standby on the Victorian border for by 10 officers from Forests NSW and The Lake George Zone (incorporating rapid deployment. eight volunteers from five Zones/Teams Palerang and Queanbeyan City local together with 10 salaried staff The Region has targeted training government areas) was formed during programmes to meet the Service’s the year. • Combined Region South and Region minimum requirements for qualifications West Volunteer Community Education Key goals for Region South for next year in all positions as well as providing Forum held at Griffith 1/4 September include: professional development opportunities 2005 for staff. • Further development of Zones across • IMT Exercise and IC/DIC Brief held Region Administration Officers were given the at Nowra 6/8 September 2005 opportunity to undertake learning and • State Championships – Barooga attended by 21 RFS salaried staff, development in Certificate IV in Business 18 volunteers eight officers from Forests • Group Officer Forum – Narrandera Administration. Various courses at NSW, one from SCRIO and two from Certificate IV and Diploma level were • Community Education the Department of Environment and undertaken by staff in other functional Conservation-Parks areas. • Regional Incident Management Workshop – Yass • Volunteer Forum held at Culcairn During the year: (Hume Zone) on 10 October 2005 • Regional Incident Management Exercise • three staff completed Certificate IV – Bega • Regional staff conference held at Griffith (Business Administration) from 6/8 June 2006 attended by • Formalisation of OH&S structures within 70 people • two staff completed an Advanced Region and Zone Offices Diploma of Business Management • Quarterly Zone Manager and functional • Region South all staff Conference • one staff member completed Certificate (Operations, Learning and Development, IV in Training and Assessment • Divisional Commander/Sector Leader Community Safety, Administration) Workshops meetings to update and discuss • three staff completed a Diploma of relevant issues. Business (Quality Auditing) • Local Government Forum The major goal of this strategy is to • one staff member completed a Diploma • Cross-border forum incorporating CFA, open the lines of communication within Fire Management ACT RFS and CFS. the Region as well as with a range of • four staff completed Certificate IV stakeholders. Forums similar to those in Firefighting Supervision. described above will be held in future to build on the work done to date.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 27 the year in the regions region: WEST
NSW Overview – RFS Region/Districts/Zones for Region WEST
43
37 44
38 36
42
41 39
45 46
40
KEY 36. Cudgegong 39. Canobolas Zone 41. Mid Lachlan Team 44. Far West Team 37. North West Team Blayney Parkes Unincorporated NSW Walgett Orange Forbes Central Darling Coonamble Cabonne Weddin Cobar Warren Cowra 42. Mid Lachlan Valley Team Broken Hill (Non RFS) Bogan 40. South West Slopes Zone Lachlan 45. Mid West Team 38. Orana Team Boorowa 43. Barwon Darling Zone Hay Narromine Harden Brewarrina Carrathool Wellington Cootamundra Bourke 46. Bland Temora Zone Dubbo Young Bland Temora
28 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 Above average late spring rains, followed and the Regional Office performance is by a long dry summer produced high measured consistently allowing accurate volumes of cured grass, particularly in the reporting upon the success or failure of northern Riverina, South and Central West programmes as a Region. Slopes and Tablelands. This led to a busier Overall performance against Business than average fire season for Region West Plan Targets is shown below: with six emergency declarations under Section 44 of the Rural Fires Act, the Management largest of which was the Weddin Mountains Overall, an average compliance of 81% National Park. More than 800 personnel against target performance of the 27 from Region West were deployed in 35 programmes included in this KRA was different strike teams across the state as achieved. Overall, an average well as a small commitment to compliance of 81% South Australia. Major achievements included against target In terms of overall performance all • development and implementation of a Region Teams/Zones can be consistently ‘core’ business plan for Teams/Zones performance of the 27 measured against the four key result areas and the Regional office (KRAs) of the Region’s business plan: programmes included • completion of an annual exception report • Management within seven days of the end of the in this KRA was achieved. reporting period • Operations • completion of all scheduled audits • Learning and Development • introduction of an inventory management • Community Safety. system for all Teams/Zones The Region established a process whereby • introduction of three twelve-month all teams/zones (including the Regional clerical traineeships within the Mid Office) have the same target performances Lachlan Valley, Cudgegong and contained within their business plan, Canobolas districts. meaning that although the action undertaken may vary slightly between the team/Zone
region west – overall 2005/06
100
80
60
% Achieved 40
20
0 Barwon Bland Canobolas Cudgegong Far West Mid Lachlan Mid West North West Orana South West Regional Darling Temora Valley Slopes Avg Team/Zone
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 29 the year in the regions region: WEST
Operations Community Safety An average compliance of 73% against An average compliance of 85% against target performance of the 19 programmes target performance of the 19 programmes in this KRA was achieved. of this KRA was achieved. Major achievements included Major achievements included: • transfer of a Fire Investigation • Selection of Orana and Cudgegong as Coordinator to the Region pilot areas for the introduction of the new Risk Management Plan • progress with the Standards of Fire Cover programme • Introduction and piloting of the state- wide cadet programme at Forbes and • the outstanding success of a regional Parkes High Schools An average compliance exercise held at Lake Burrendong • An average of 12 community safety of 90% against target • commencement of programmes for events in each Team/Zone performance of the 19 communications business continuity, catering provisions and logistics support, • Spatial Mapping system introduced completion of which will occur next year. programmes in this KRA • Introduction of Community Safety was achieved. Learning and Development Assistant Course at Gilgandra An average compliance of 90% against • Introduction of Fire Trail Supervisors target performance of the 19 programmes Course run by Orange TAFE. in this KRA was achieved. Regional priorities for 2006/07 include: Major achievements included: • Level 3 (Fireline Tree Felling) courses • 70 personnel availing themselves of in August and September 2006 in the opportunity to attend the Region’s partnership with TAFE NSW Group Leader training programme. • Facilitation of specialist training courses Twenty-seven successfully undertook in Aviation, Leadership, Conducting the assessment phase Briefings/Debriefings and Crash Free • Twenty-five personnel were awarded Driving the Diploma in Business (Frontline • Assisting volunteers to have their Management) with a further 13 currently experience, knowledge and expertise studying. Forty-one salaried officers (out recognised with formal RFS qualifications of an establishment of 64) within the Region hold the required qualification • Incident Management exercises or better • Group Officer forums. • Thirty personnel attended a Safe Food Handling course and received a nationally recognised qualification with a further 30 set to attend a similar course next year • Thirteen of the Region’s trainers and assessors attended a Certificate IV Training and Assessment course • Forty-three staff and volunteers were assessed as being competent to fulfil various roles in Incident Management Teams.
30 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 operations support
Counselling and Support The third stage of the review of CISS • Specific inter-agency teams meetings The Counselling and Support Unit (CSU) standing protocols and procedures was and training completed and involved a review of covers three main areas of responsibility • Two advanced team training activities. psychosocial-educational components • Critical Incident Support Services (CISS) against best practice theory and delivery Member Assistance Programme models; guidelines for teams, districts and • Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), The Service continues to recognise the regional offices as well as inter-agency and need to support our volunteer members training and multi-agency responses. The who may be affected by a situation not • Member Assistance Programme (MAP). review is 90% complete with the final directly relating to their operational document being produced and During the review period information and involvement. In these cases, a referral and implemented in December 2006. awareness sessions for staff were provided assistance programme is available, which in the areas of conflict resolution A needs analysis focusing on trends in helps members and their families locate an techniques and interview techniques with CISS activations and the use of on-scene appropriate practitioner within their distressed people, as well as motivational support strategies was completed. geographical location if possible. keynote addresses at regional conferences. Advanced training for Peer Support The programme continues to be integrated members was undertaken in October The CISS programme is available to all with the Chaplaincy and Family Support 2005 and April 2006. members of the Service on a 24hrs/7 days initiatives allowing for appropriate clinical a week basis with every aspect of the work Future CISS goals advice and services to be offered. being strictly confidential with assistance Comparative analysis indicates a stable • Representation and undertaking training provided through Peer Support and trauma utilisation of the referral service. Spot at the forthcoming Australian Conference specialist interventions. reviews indicated that the provision of of Critical Incident Stress Management such a programme was perceived as and the World Congress in 2007 highly valuable. • Identification of additional Peer Support positions on a geographical basis
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 31 operations support
Employee Assistance Engineering Services Programme Delivery of new tankers was in accordance This counselling service, available to with the agreed production schedule employees and their families, is provided enabling those vehicles to be effectively through a dual mechanism of internal integrated into the service’s tanker fleet. provision and an external contracted Funding provision was made for 230 new agency of qualified Psychologists and and refurbished tankers to be delivered Practitioners, specialising in this aspect to brigades. of support. New developments in the design of Statistically, the utilisation rate of this tankers/appliances and personal protective programme remains similar to last year. equipment were the highlights of an extremely busy year. Customer satisfaction A review of the geographic locations of clinical associates was conducted resulting In respect of design performance the surveys undertaken by in an increase of 12% better coverage. Service improved the design of the Category 1 tanker and finalised the design the provider indicate A critique of the referral mechanisms to of a new Category 11 tanker. the external provider was again reviewed a healthy satisfaction in consultation with the external provider A new format contract for Category with services offered. ensuring a smoother and more effective 1, 2 and 11 tankers was released. engagement of services takes place. Research continued into improvements A promotional drive was undertaken to two-piece wildland protective clothing. including updated information as part of the new employee orientation package. An educative process for both employees and managers continued on a region-by- region basis with special emphasis is being given to the ‘Manager Assist’ element of the EAP. Customer satisfaction surveys undertaken by the provider indicate a healthy satisfaction with services offered.
CISS MAP EAP Number of Number of Hours Number Internal External Requests Personnel of new assisted Requests 2005-2006 309 2,287 5,886 311 91 24 2004-2005 322 2,533 5,951 304 109 24 2003-2004 295 2,181 4,842 284 118 21 2002-2003 314 2,507 6,819 316 189 8 2001-2002 286 2,330 4,577 338 133 14
Statistics NB. These figures do not account for pre-incident information/education sessions provided throughout the year. The number of hours relating to CISS does not account for training and supervision of CISS personnel.
32 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 A modified design to address the issue of The Service’s Learning and Development A key entry qualification for many RFS chassis cracks in some FTS Category 1 Committee was particularly active and staff positions is the certificate IV in and 2 tankers was completed. Computer continues to enjoy a positive reputation Firefighting Supervision (recently replaced modelling of the performance of the for providing informed and constructive by the certificate IV in Public Safety – altered chassis was carried out feedback. Formal feedback sheets will be Firefighting Supervision). This qualification successfully. Field testing of the new attached to all drafts sent out for becomes mandatory for persons seeking design will be carried out at the ADF circulation and programmes will be relevant new positions from 1 January equipment test centre once a test validated and improved in the following 2008. The annual and cumulative numbers vehicle is available. twelve months. achieving this qualification through RFS in recent years is indicated in the table below: Learning and Development Extension of the scope of registration to cover additional units of competency Note: The new national Certificate IV in Public Compliance with the Australian Quality related to a range of large incident Safety (Firefighting Supervision) is difficult to Training Framework (AQTF) is mandatory management, fire investigation and senior achieve except for people who are specialists in the for the Service and is complete except for aviation or community safety fields – see the drop community safety functions was some training materials that – while in numbers qualifying in 2005-06. successfully completed. meeting the new standards – need to The RFS also accepts the certificates IV in be updated specifically to refer to Workshops developed during the year Business Management, Business (Frontline those standards. have helped accelerate the training of Management) and Government (with suitable Public firefighters, crew leaders, group leaders Safety units attached) as being equivalent. Training materials packs were produced and selected specialists. Arrangements have been put in place for both staff within budget. In 2005/06 a policy of and volunteers of the Service to have easy access asserting the importance of learning and The new learning and assessment to the Certificate IV in Business (Frontline development objectives and maintaining a strategies define about 60 training Management). Programmes are now in place to stronger focus on meeting deadlines has programmes compared with 25 in the train existing staff in the Diploma of Business (Frontline Management) and Advanced Diploma of improved performance for meeting previous system defined in 1996. Business Management. Future statistics will feature completion target dates. Previously, the Out of that 60, training support materials these qualification levels. During the reporting number of staff available to produce currently exist for 50 programmes. period 45 staff completed these programmes. training materials did not meet market demand but this has now been corrected and ‘on time’ performance has improved.
2005-06 2004-05 2003-04 2002-03
Number/year 11 87 56 32
Cumulative 226 215 128 72
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 33 operations support
Ministerial Liaison Unit days a week. A suite of administrative tools The Unit is responsible for providing draft were developed to allow front-line staff at replies to Ministerial correspondence, the Service’s Operations Customer Support Parliamentary advice and briefing material, centre to diagnose and resolve common answers to Parliamentary questions, problems. coordination of Cabinet papers, and In the next year of development MyRFS responses to requests for documents will build on its strong foundation with on behalf of the Service. additional maps and more resources to The Unit handled 517 formal Ministerial assist volunteers better manage their and Freedom of Information requests brigade activities. compared to 720 last year. The majority Occupational Health, Safety were replies to letters (169), closely In the first full and Welfare followed by house folder and estimates development year committee notes to support the Minister The first year of existence for the section in Parliament (165). was a busy and rewarding time for the MyRFS increased its newly appointed staff and a significant Freedom of Information statistics are number of milestones were achieved. membership to 5,800 set out in Appendix ‘H’. A staff first aid management system that registered volunteer Average response time for answering ensures the provision of expert first aid users and has a target Ministerial requests was 20.6 days assistance to staff and visitors to Service excluding house folder and estimates offices throughout the state was developed of achieving 10,000 committee notes. and implemented. registered users by The Unit achieved 100% compliance with A staff health and safety consultation the statutory timeframes for determination committee was formed to assist and work 30 June 2007. under the Freedom of Information Act. with management in the identification and No decisions were overturned on review. control of hazards within designated RFS workplaces. MyRFS MyRFS is the secure volunteer website A key achievement was the creation of an that allows volunteers to access injury data collection and analysis capability information and services they need to which will enable the Service to efficiently better fulfil their roles. facilitate the collection, storage and retrieval of accident and injury reports In the first full development year MyRFS for analysis and reporting. increased its membership to 5,800 registered volunteer users and has a target A proposal to establish a formal of achieving 10,000 registered users by accident/incident investigation system 30 June 2007. incorporating trained investigation officers was accepted by the Executive and the As part of the diverse Project project is progressing on schedule Communications Plan MyRFS was with full implementation prior to the represented and demonstrated at a start of the 2006 fire season. number of volunteer events during the year including regional exercises, community education forums and the RFSA annual conference in Mudgee. The MyRFS website allows volunteers to self-register using specific information provided to each volunteer by their captain or brigade secretary. This information is also passed to each new member of the Service. MyRFS helpline volunteers can obtain login support 24 hours a day, seven
34 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 COMMUNITY SAFETY
The evolution of the traditional fire service The Directorate’s focus over the ensuing role from being that of purely a responsive twelve months is to implement the new organisation into one which interacts with Planning for Bush Fire Protection 2006, the community before, during, and after fire and provide appropriate training for staff events is evident in the Directorate’s focus. and volunteers in all aspects of community safety. Additionally, we will review our The Service strives to be the leader in service delivery components to ensure that complex areas such as development we conduct our business in a manner that control, hazard complaints, responsible is responsive to community expectations environmental considerations and and ensure that all policy and guideline community engagement. documents are realistic and achievable. It is only by having a regulatory role in the approval of developments and management Development Control Services The Service strives of bush fire hazards that the RFS can Development Control Services aims to influence the level of safety afforded to increase the safety of our community to be the leader in the community of NSW living in or near through appropriate planning, design complex areas such as bushland, along with ensuring that the and construction of development in bush environment that our fire fighters work fire prone areas. This ultimately reduces development control, in during times of bush fires is as safe community exposure to the damage as possible. caused by bush fires and provides a better hazard complaints, environment for firefighters in the event of During the past year, the Directorate has responsible bush fires. been significantly involved in a number of projects including: Rural Fire Districts continue to be environmental supported by Development Control • Revision of Planning for Bushfire considerations and Services in line with the 2002 Protection 2001 amendment of the Rural Fires Act and the community engagement. • Assessment of 2,875 development Environmental Planning and Assessment applications as part of Development Act to give the Service a role in approving Control Services function new developments in bush fire prone areas. Since then 33,084 development • Finalisation of the review, and applications have been assessed by subsequent implementation, of the Bush the Service. Fire Environmental Assessment Code During the year under review, the Service • Provided districts, zones and teams with assessed 9,336 developments across media support for more than the State, of which 2,875 development 7,700 bush, grass and structure fires, as applications were assessed as part of the well as hundreds of other emergency development control services function. incidents across NSW The number of integrated development • Trained more than 600 journalists, applications refused by the Service has camera operators, photographers and fallen significantly over the past three producers around NSW in bush fire years from 145 (5.3%) in 2003/04 to safety 41 (1.8%) in 2005/06. The level of service offered to clients and outcomes achieved • Significantly increased the number of have increased with a marked reduction in schools participating in the 10 week overdue applications. Secondary Schools Cadet Programme. Of the applications processed 391 were special protection developments (schools, hospitals, nursing homes and other vulnerable communities) and 1872 were subdivision developments.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 35 COMMUNITY SAFETY
The Service processed 989 development The review involved extensive consultation applications under Sections 79C and with government regulatory, firefighting 96 of the Environmental Planning and and land management authorities and Assessment Act 1979 compared to community interest organisations. There 752 applications last year – an increase was also a state-wide public exhibition of 31.5%. of the draft document which resulted in 26 submissions. Following the period of Advice was provided to local councils extensive public exhibition, the amended and other agencies in respect of local Code was approved by the Minister for environment plans and bush fire protection Emergency Services (with the concurrence under Section 117 of the Environmental of other relevant Ministers) and Planning and Assessment Act 1979. subsequently gazetted to commence on In conjunction with the Department of 1 February, 2006. On Saturday 8 October, Planning and other stakeholders the Retraining and assessment of 120 Service Service began a review of Planning for more than 400 Brigade staff as Certificate Issuing Officers Bushfire Protection 2001. The reviewed ensured a smooth transition between Stations across the and revised version of the document will implementation of the original Code and be completed next year. state were opened to the amended version. Comprehensive Natural Environment Services Code guidelines have also been prepared the public to promote to assist staff. Natural Environment The Natural Environment Services Services assisted other authorities fire awareness, section is responsible for developing understand the changes to the Code. and implementing environmental policy property protection within the Service. In doing so, the section Natural Environment Services has and general Service assists the BFCC, Bush Fire Management also been involved with a major review Committees, other agencies and the of community education documents activities. Service to undertake their activities in associated with the Code, as follows: a more cohesive, planned and effective • Application Instructions for Bush Fire manner in order to improve overall Hazard Reduction Certificates performance for the community. It aims to provide analysis, advice, recommendations • Before You Light that Fire and policy on ecologically sustainable • Standards for Pile Burning development, ensure compliance with environmental legislation and support • Standards for Windrow Burning continuous improvement initiatives for • Standards for Low Intensity Bush Fire environmental outcomes. Hazard Reduction Burning Finalisation of the review, and subsequent • Standards for Asset Protection Zones. implementation, of the Bush Fire Environmental Assessment Code was a During the year, 2,435 Bush Fire Hazard major project this year. The Code provides Reduction Certificates were issued by the a streamlined approach to environmental Service compared to 2,572 last year. assessment for the majority of bush fire hazard reduction works across NSW.
36 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 Media and Public Affairs Bushfire Bulletin and Website Events Coordination The Media and Public Affairs section Major improvements have been made to To ensure that standardisation occurs manages much of the Service’s external both the Bushfire Bulletin and the Rural throughout the Service with the way relations. It is responsible for media Fire Service public website. in which medal presentations, station comment on Service issues and activities, openings and the like are conducted, an The Bushfire Bulletin is the Service’s as well as key promotions such as the ‘Events Management Kit’ was developed quarterly magazine, circulating to more annual Open Day. Media and Public Affairs and distributed to all districts. In addition than 33,000 subscribers. After a period produces the Bushfire Bulletin four times to presentation resources the kit also of consultation and development, the a year and is also responsible for the contains guidelines on how to manage new look Bushfire Bulletin was launched production of the Annual Report. events. in January 2006. The new-look Bulletin 2005-06 saw a number of major features a cleaner layout, more photos and Risk Management Performance achievements for Media and Public Affairs: updates on activities at brigade, district The Risk Management Performance Unit and state level. A reader survey is currently provides audit, investigation, reporting Open Day underway to help future improvements. On Saturday 8 October, more than 400 and support services for the BFCC Brigade stations across the state were The Service’s public website plays a key and the Service. The Unit’s activities opened to the public to promote fire role in communicating information about inform continuous improvement of awareness; property protection and general current fires, preparing for fires, building community safety outcomes and facilitate Service activities. This was the Service’s in bush fire prone areas and the general improvements in the coordinated fire second annual Open Day and the third is activities of the Service. The layout and management arrangements. navigation of the site have now been expected to be held in September 2006. Fire Permit reporting forms part of the greatly improved and it is now far easier Annual Bush Fire Risk Management Plan Operational Media for the public to access the areas they implementation report to the BFCC. The need without a series of searches. RFS Media Liaison Officers based at Rural Fires Act 1997 provides for this The RFS website receives more than local Incident Management Teams (IMTs) report to close by 31 August 2006 for the 3,700,000 hits each year. provided public safety information to 2005/06 year. It is anticipated that the full residents in fire affected areas during 38 Establishment of 1800 NSW RFS report will be presented to the BFCC in Section 44 fires in the 2005-2006 fire November 2006. season, including major fires at Junee In order to improve access to the Service and Gosford. and a faster response to enquiries, a new The BFCC Communications Reference 1800 number, 1800 NSW RFS Group met several times during 2005/06 At a state-wide level, the Service’s Media (1800 679 737) has been introduced. to further develop implementation of seven Officers supported districts, zones and 1800 NSW RFS provides direct key strategies adopted last year. teams with media assistance for more information on: than 7,700 bush, grass and structure fires, The co-ordination of hazard reduction as well as hundreds of other emergency • Current fire activity figures involves the integration of different incidents across NSW. • Total Fire Bans data sets from land management agencies. The hazard reduction figures are set out in The ongoing media accreditation • Fire safety tips for urban and country Appendix ‘C‘. programme has now seen more than people 3,000 journalists, camera operators and The performance audits of BFRMPs photographers around NSW trained in • Advice on building development controls. continued with 41 plans having been audited to date, including nine during bush fire safety. 600 media personnel were Introduced in October 2005, the 2005/06. trained during 2005-2006. Information Line recorded more than This year a new monthly publication 50,000 calls to 30 June 2006. A new BFRMPs are developed by local BFMCs, ‘Operational Brief’ was produced by Media interactive system is being developed that and approved by the BFCC, and provide and Public Affairs to disseminate vital will expand the number of options available a comprehensive set of strategies for the operational information from Aviation; to callers and the scope of information reduction of bush fire hazards across all Operational Policy and Standards; they will be able to access. land tenures and agencies involved in bush Operational Planning and Development; fire management within that local area over and Operational Communications. a five year period. ‘Operational Brief’ is distributed to volunteers and staff.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 37 COMMUNITY SAFETY
Performance audits are conducted under • 325 Adult Programmes The tenth Community Education section 62A(1) of the Rural Fires Act Conference was conducted in Newcastle • 1,072 Fire Awareness Programmes 1997, which gives the Commissioner the and attended by 427 delegates from authority to carry out audits. The required • 546 Youth Programmes. across Australia – an increase of 27% number of audits being set out in the on the previous year. The recognition The Community Safety Assistant (CSA) Strategic Audit Plan which resulted from of the quality of the information and training programme, the first of three the recommendations of the Joint Select resources at this annual conference was levels of community education training Committee on Bush Fires 2002. further demonstrated by the registration based on the national Certificate III and and attendance of 37 delegates from Details of the plans that were audited are IV and Diploma in Community Safety, 15 related services located throughout set out in Appendix ‘D’. was rolled out across the State with Australasia. Mentoring in the delivery and 243 volunteers and staff successfully The strategies contained within BFRMPs use of contemporary techniques and new completing the programme. The second have five levels of risk, from extreme resources was delivered through a series level of training, Community Safety to insignificant, and define community of regional forums specifically targeted Facilitator (CSF), was released in June assets such as houses, schools and at volunteer educators to address the and 24 Service members completed hospitals and environmental assets such as outcomes of the Conference. assessment. Both programmes, plus the threatened species and cultural heritage. third level programme – Community Safety Major enhancements were achieved in the The strategies cover prevention activities, Coordinator (CSC) – will continue to be reference and research capabilities of the community education, hazard reduction available next year. Service through the Library website and works, arson reduction activities and resource catalogues were made available response planning. The number of schools taking part in the to all volunteers via the MyRFS portal. 10 week school based Cadet Training The review of the model bush fire risk Package increased from five in 2004/5 management plan continues and is due Community Hazards to 17 in 2005/6 – an increase of 340%. for completion in early 2007. Management Funding from NRMA Insurance/Insurance District Bush Fire Risk Management Community Education Australia Group enabled the Service to Plans form the basis for bush fire hazard The Community Education section is purchase three additional community reduction works planning within local tasked with developing and/or improving education trailers, bringing the total government areas in NSW. The Community the knowledge, attitudes, skills and number of trailers in use to 32. These Hazard Management section develops the behaviours of the wider community highly effective units provide the Service guidelines and frame work for these plans regarding fires. The focus is to educate the with a professional and flexible capacity to and assists local Bush Fire Management general public in the prevention, control, deliver community safety messages to the Committees to develop Bush Fire Risk suppression and mitigation of bush and public at differing types of venues ranging Management Plans. A significant outcome other fires thereby ensuring a better from farms, villages, street meetings, of these plans is ensuring that essential prepared and safer community. The ideal schools or remote parts of the state. hazard reduction works are undertaken. outcome is a community that is well aware of the hazards of fire and is well prepared for its threat. With the BRIMS providing its first full year report on the level of activity across the State the year under review was a watershed for the Service’s Community Education section. Data showed that the Service committed 37,700 hours to community awareness and education programmes and delivered: Major enhancements were achieved in the reference and research capabilities of the Service through the Library website and resource catalogues were made available to all volunteers via the MyRFS portal.
38 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 The section is also responsible for In the next twelve months the section will: The activities of the Business Development managing the complaints about hazard unit make a financial contribution to • finalise the development of the Bush Fire reduction, and providing members of the the resources available to support the Risk Management planning process public with a facility to register concerns development of facilities and opportunities about bush fire hazards. The section is also • complete a roll-out of the new model for for volunteers. responsible for ensuring that hazards are Operations Plans under Section 52 treated by issuing notices and engaging Domestic Business • develop a state-wide fuel assessment contractors to undertake works where the Our corporate training programme within process landholder fails to comply. NSW continues to grow in areas such • implement a new permit issuing system as fire extinguisher training and bush The Community Hazards Management to support volunteers issuing permits fire awareness courses. Each corporate section is committed to the continuous training course is conducted by qualified improvement of the policy and planning • establish a collaborative research centre instructors drawn from volunteer ranks instruments relating to coordinated bush for the environmental risk management from Rural Fire Districts across the state. fire planning under section 52 of theRural of bush fires. Fires Act 1997. The section also provides During the year, a total of 91 corporate assistance and advice to BFMCs in the Business Development training courses were conducted development of these plans, as well as The Business Development Unit’s role generating total revenue of $97,000. managing the issue of fire safety permits is to identify and act upon international International Business and penalty notices. and domestic commercial business opportunities within the functions of the For the review period the focus centred on During the year key achievements Service as identified in theRural Fires new market opportunities to include Korea included the: Act 1997. The objectives of these activities and Vietnam. • development of a penalty notice system are to increase revenue for the Service; Discussions and/or officer exchange to provide professional development • completion of Guidelines for Permit programmes were also pursued with the opportunities for volunteers and staff; to Issuing Officers governments of China, Bhutan, Korea, benchmark the Service against others, Malaysia, Singapore and Japan. • implementation of a spatial reporting both within Australia and internationally; system for fire safety permits and and to make a contribution to emergency Details of international travel relating to management at a global level, particularly business development are included in • continuation of the review of the Risk in developing countries. Appendix ‘O’. Management Planning Process and the use of that process by four BFMCs.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 39 STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT
Corporate Planning and Information Services Performance Improvements to the structure and process Strategic Development is responsible for within the Help Desk area have delivered the development, implementation and a more customer focused service. Staff the provision of support for the Service’s both in headquarters and districts – where planing, reporting, management and distance makes such a service even more continuous improvement systems. important – have expressed their increased satisfaction with the service. During the Its role is designed to assist other parts year 7,561 help desk calls were opened of the Service with the delivery of key compared to 7,063 in the previous year and services through the adoption of a 7,444 in 2003/04. This increase largely more systematic and planned approach reflects the expected peak in calls during to their work. Largely, much of this customer satisfaction the roll-out of the new Standard Operating work is project-based during the initial Environment. phases of development, followed by the remained relatively implementation of ongoing management Based on surveys that were completed unchanged at 6.62 and maintenance systems. at the closure of each call, customer satisfaction remained relatively unchanged on a scale of 1 to 7, Significant outcomes were achieved in a at 6.62 on a scale of 1 to 7, compared to range of fields during 2005/06, including: compared to 6.61 6.61 last year. • Support for the expansion and Other key achievements during the last year. development of the Service’s internal year were auditing function • Mapping and data analysis for the hazard • Establishment of the Service’s interim reduction four year plan Business Continuity Management Plan • A portal for volunteers (MyRFS) was • Revitalisation of the Service’s Standards developed and an improved version, of Fire Cover in order to better inform with additional features, was released the allocation of firefighting equipment and facilities • In support of MyRFS, two thousand brigade maps were provided • Establishment of the Service’s Corporate Plan, and • A reduction in the time taken to map firescan data (from aircraft) from the • Implementation of elements of forecast six hours to two hours. This has the Organisational Performance significantly improved the Service’s ability Management Framework. to plan firefighting operations In pursuing its strategy to satisfy the • The implementation of a standard current and future needs of the Service operating environment for all RFS and other agencies by maintaining and workstations comprising the latest expanding the competencies both of versions of Microsoft systems and operational and non-operational personnel applications. These changes have the Service introduced a centralised audit enabled the delivery of a significant programme. The policy development improvement in the overall reliability framework includes a comprehensive of our computer systems review document to ensure that key performance indicators are developed • Implementation of a standards-based to provide measures against which they (PRINCE2) project management can be audited. methodology • Improvements to ICON for the management of live incidents.
40 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 Policy and Standards In reviewing the existing policy Strategic Services and Infrastructure Achievements during the year have been environment it was recognised that there Planning directed into four areas was an opportunity for improvement The Standard Station Project was a key in the development, dissemination and project undertaken by the section. It has • Complete review of the model brigade communication of policy documentation. enabled the Service for the first time to set constitution Following development of a policy a flexible standard that meets the needs of • The implementation of a new policy development framework, and a the Service’s Volunteers. The standard development framework supporting Service Standard, an effective takes into account the various needs communication strategy is being across the State, whether it be a Rural • A review of all existing policy developed. This will be directed to all staff Remote Brigade needing a simple 1 Bay documentation, and and volunteers to better communicate and Station or a Village 2 Brigade requiring a • Development and maintenance of educate policy documentation to ensure 4 Bay Station with a Meeting Room, Office, a legal advice register. widespread dissemination and promotion Kitchen, Toilets and Breathing Apparatus of a two way exchange of information with Cleaning and storage room, the new Review of the model brigade constitution all Service members. standard allow this to occur. The standard included extensive consultation with key eliminates the need to keep redesigning stakeholders, in particular a broad cross- An extensive review of all service standards stations every time a Brigade needs a section of volunteer representatives. Three and associated guidelines and standard new station built. It also allows Local separate guidelines were also developed to operating procedures was undertaken with Government to better manage its budget complement the new constitution to assist a view to reducing not only the number as the new standard gives certainty to the brigades in of documents but also ensuring that they comply with legislative requirements. The budgeting process. The standard also • managing their accounts Service’s Policy Review Committee has allows for a more coordinated approach to procurement with the possibility of • managing brigade meetings, and agreed to a proposal to reduce the number of service standards from 107 to 64. The State-wide contract being let for • completing the new constitution. proposal will be implemented next year. construction and therefore giving the possibility of discounts through bulk purchase.
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 41 DAVID LOWE OPERATIONS MANAGER SYDNEY CBD FIREFIGHTER VOLUNTEER FOR 5 YEARS
I’ve been volunteering for 5 years and I enjoy getting involved in the community and obtaining new skills. Socialising is also a big part of what we do and it’s a great way to meet new people.
42 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 PERFORMANCE 04
44 OUR PERFORMANCE 45 MANAGEMENT 48 COMMUNITY SAFETY 50 LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT 51 OPERATIONS
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 43 our performance
Our Strategic Plan guides our performance and is based on the doctrine of continuous improvement. The four key result areas that are the drivers for our performance are • Management – managing our human, financial and physical resources in a competent and accountable manner • Community Safety – providing a range of prevention and mitigation services to increase community awareness of risks, and involvement in their reduction • Learning and Development – competent and productive leadership and management by people who are committed to our mission, and • Operations – ensuring rapid and effective response to emergency incidents and to prevent injury and loss. This section of our annual report details our performance against these critical areas.
44 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 management
Managing our human, financial and physical resources in a competent and accountable manner
What we said we would do What we did Measure What we shall do next year
Establish and maintain Complied with statutory Audit confirms compliance Follow up audits office documentation requirements systems
Record Assets on Asset Introduced new policy and Percentage of assets recorded Follow up audits Management system systems to improve asset reporting
Comply with Government Increased green power Percentage of green power Review of Energy Management energy reduction targets purchased to 6% purchased Plan Prepared Energy Management Plan
Energy efficient equipment Percentage of new equipment Increased percentage of energy purchased purchased efficient equipment
Improve cost effectiveness Identified appropriate vehicles Reduction in fleet running costs Evaluate performance of of RFS passenger vehicle for fleet vehicles
fleet Implemented new fleet Percentage of regions/districts All regions/districts using new management system using new system system
Reduce waste Met target of 85% recyclable Percentage of compliance with Fully comply with policy materials recycled/purchased government policy
Introduced new recycling Increase staff awareness initiatives
Improve security Standard platform for regional/ Percentage of regional/district Roll-out platform to appropriate district offices delayed offices moved to common offices platform Improve warehouse Introduces best practice Number of breaches of Continue process and comply management warehousing processes processes with OH&S requirements Increase revenue through 20% revenue increase Percentage of revenue Increase return on investment business development increased through increased business
Review Strategic Plan New Corporate Plan developed Compliance with target date. Refinement of performance indicators
New Strategic Plan drafted Milestones met Plan available November 2006
Design and implementation Delivered April 2006 Implementation timetable. Version 4 – with links to Total Version 3 of Electronic Asset Management System Number regional offices using Service Delivery model (TAM) – available Service-wide eSDM (eSDM)
Continue implementation of 68 audits in 2005/6 119 target audits Comply fully with programme systems audit programme targets 21 lead auditors trained percentage increase in number of lead auditors trained
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 45 management
What we said we would do What we did Measure What we shall do next year
Revitalise Standards of Fire Districts completion of SOFC Number completed Data to be included in TAM Cover (SOFC) programme begun plan August 2006
Regions to complete pilot brigade Number completed by target classification projects date
Review Performance Project delayed until March 2007 Compliance with target date Completion by March 2007 Management Planning and Review System
Develop links between Initial development completed Compliance with target date Development of extent and Corporate and Human quality of links Resources Plans
Efficient supply of tankers Tankers supplied within specified Percentage of delivered late On-time delivery of tankers timeframes Percentage of reduction in number of faults reported
Participate in development Active involvement in working Percentage of forums/working Ongoing participation of PPE to Australian and forums groups attended ISO technical standards
Develop RandD programme Programme developed and Findings published Continuation of programme to provide basis for implemented engineering related decisions
Design new tanker spray System designed and tested Adoption by December 2006 Monitor and evaluate protection system
Develop and release new Two new sections added Clients find reports fit for Enhancement of existing Corporate Reports – Inventory and Training purpose reports, construction and deployment of new reports
Implement policy and Framework developed Regular meeting of Policy Three yearly review schedule document review process Review Committee to be developed
Review and update of Service Compliance with timetable Full completion of review Standards and SOPs delayed process by June 2007
Development of policy Delayed through failure of supply Percentage of information Implementation following document control by software provider loaded onto Document supply of software management system. Management System
Review of brigade model Project completed Process developed and New suite of documents to constitution compliance achieved be issued by 1 September 2006
46 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 What we said we would do What we did Measure What we shall do next year
Project manage key 21 projects managed compared Number of projects managed Full compliance with corporate projects with 21 in 2004/05 and 8 in using corporate project methodology 2003/04 methodology
Complete revised TAM plan Plan completed Compliance with Treasury Approved by Treasury, Guidelines August 2006
Audit of brigade facilities 50% brigade stations audited Percentage brigade stations 100% audit completed audited
Preparation of draft Plan drafted Plan to be available June 2006 Report on action strategies Strategic Human Resources plan
Support volunteers in Identified issues Percentage reported and Continue performing Service roles analysed
Systems, policies developed to Percentage of issues identified Ongoing analysis remove constraints
Participated in V21 Project Delivery of Project report Analysis of report; conducted by Australian Catholic – 90% completed implementation of identified University – 3 year project recruitment options
Participated in CRC research Compliance with completion Commencement of Phase 2 project on volunteerism – Phase 1 dates
completed
Participated in volunteer forums Number of forums Increase number of forums
Effective service Provided evidence of record Percentage of compliance Audit by CrimTrac Agency membership procedures keeping, electronic database and with provisions of MOU with destruction of Consent forms CrimTrac Agency
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 47 community safety
Providing a range of prevention and mitigation services to increase community awareness of risks and involvement in their reduction
What we said we would do What we did Measure What we shall do next year
Update and review Planning Delayed due to Target date compliance Public exhibition in September 2006 for Bush Fire Protection extensive consultation (PBFP) and train staff with review panel
Design and implementation Implementation Design and implementation Planning for next version of Fire Investigation System completed completed to Phase II
Maintain and improve fire Final development of Percentage of system completed Integrate with incident reporting investigation data analysis system within timeframe system (ICON) system
Investigate and report 375 wildfire and Percentage of fires investigated Increase reporting capabilities upon cause and origin 362 structural fires within Service parameters of reported fires investigated (97%)
Promote Service’s fire Participation on Participation level in relevant Enhance international fire investigation capabilities Australian Fire workshops/professional meetings investigation links Investigators Committee and Wildland Investigation Working Team (USA)
BFCC coordinated Communications plan Communications plan Implementation of Plan firefighting communications 80% completed implementation programme strategies developed
Monitoring Section 52 plans 10% plans audited. 10% risk plans audited. Continue audits 100% plans compliant Compliance levels of plans Develop S52 operations plans audits.
Performance audits of 10% plans audited Percentage of plans audited Analysis of audits BFRMPs
48 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 What we said we would do What we did Measure What we shall do next year
Encourage bush fire 20 community Percentage of increase in 5% increase awareness FireWise groups number of groups
established
Bush FireWise Percentage of districts/zones Gap analysis to be performed programme established with Programme
in 88% districts/zones
190 Community Percentage of increase in 5% increase Fireguard for Kids programmes conducted
Programmes
conducted
291 schools visited Percentage of increase in 5% increase schools visited
Education material Reduced number of deaths, Further development of education aligned to Code injuries, property losses/damage material attributed to fire
Number of reported fire Reduction in number of fire related incidents per 100,000 people incidents
Implementation of community Implementation report Compliance with August 05/06 report to be used as education strategies completed reporting deadline benchmark for 06/07 reports
Development of Bush Fire Model plan developed Percentage of BFMCs with Completion of review Risk Management Plans by and under review completed plans within 12 BFMCs months of release of new model 20% target
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 49 learning and development
Competent and productive leadership and management by people who are committed to our Mission
What we said we would do What we did Measure What we shall do next year
Determine GIS training Needs identified Percentage identified Formal training programmes for GIS/ needs to ensure and informal training programmes undertaken GPS systems users competence in using conducted for GIS users within first year spatial data
Support and training of Software upgrade Intranet content maintained Ongoing support as required Intranet completed. Training given to content managers
Ensure relevant learning and Complied with Australian Percentage of compliance Audit as Registered Training development compliance Quality Training Organisation Framework
Staff training Training needs identified Training delivered Professional Development Committee (PDC) to report on progress
Link established between Individual training applications professional development to be supported by Personal
and PMPRS Development Plans
Protect and Preserve the On-time for VETAB submission Package to be delivered to Service’s Incident Scene package first attack crews developed and submitted
for VETAB accreditation
34 personnel trained Additional training as required in wildfire investigation and 14 personnel trained in structural fire investigation
Fire investigation component 100% inclusion Percentage of exercises Ensure full compliance at all future to be included in all regional including fire investigation exercises exercises component
50 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 operations
Ensuring rapid and effective response to emergency incidents to prevent injury and loss
What we said we would do What we did Measure What we shall do next year
Design and implementation Project did not System specified, designed, May resume under guidance of the of logistics management commence developed and implemented Emergency Information Management function Committee
Develop Standard Operating 90% completion; Percentage completion Finalise SOPs, implement and post to Procedures for safe driving awaiting legal advice intranet
Expand Remote Area Operational doctrine Satisfactory completion Finalise SOPs, operational doctrine and Firefighting Team capability finalised and awaiting post to Intranet comment. Medicals and fitness testing began
Finalise local Mutual Aid 80% MAAs completed; Percentage of completion Finalise, implement and post to Agreements and formal 90% MOUs complete Intranet Memoranda of Understanding with other agencies/utilities
Completion of Operational Draft finalised and Submission to FSJSC Finalise and send to FSJSC Communications Service Level disseminated for Agreement with NSWFB and comment endorsement by Fire Services Joint Standing Committee
Develop procedures for Draft Service Standards Processes developed and Service Standards developed and counter disaster assistance completed distributed supporting training programmes Participation in State implemented Emergency Management Committee exercises
Self sufficiency in delivering Completed training Percentage of needs analysis Develop three year plan aviation training needs analysis completed Completed training Percentage of curriculum Pilot programmes for Air Attack curriculum completed Supervisor and Aircraft Officer Air Base Manager curriculum Completed programmed Percentage of training Completion of annual and periodic training courses completed training
Implementation of aviation Legislative and industry Sustain compliance safety programme compliance Completed audits of Percentage of audits Audit continuation contractors undertaken Discussion papers Aviation risk management Completion of performance, charter issued programme developed and dangerous goods projects Helicopter performance standards developed Issue of discussion paper Instigate Aviation Safety Advisory Committee
Processing of membership 5,275 applications Target of 4,000 and compliance New Service Standard to be released data, including National processed with Service Standard Criminal History Record 1,923 checks made in Full compliance with statutory Review and amend Consent form Check respect of members requirements involved in child related activities
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 51 operations
Statement on Standards for Work continued on providing spatial data Engagement of Consultants the Provision of Services in the BRIMS application as well as the Four consultants were retained during the Service provision is in accordance with recently released incident control system year at a total cost of $585,329. the commitments and criteria as detailed (ICON). The geospatial database enabled Consultancies equal to or more than in the Service’s Strategic Plan, copies of the Service to deliver a range of external $30,000 were as follows: which can be obtained free of charge from data such as contours and roads, and internal data such as brigade locations the Service’s website (www.rfs.nsw.gov.au), $ headquarters and regional offices or by and bush fire prone land. Further releases telephoning 02 8741 5555. related to ICON are progressively in train Personnel and Industrial and ICON is being used by 1,218 users Diplomacy Management 38,840 Contract and Market Testing from eight agencies. Consultants Policies and action plans have been Privacy and Personal developed to address issues of contract (Industrial relations advocacy Information and market testing in areas of equipment service) supply, learning and development, and In response to the requirements of the Information Technology community education. Privacy and Personal Information Act 1998 the Service has developed a Service Incheck Systems 178,907 The Commissioner and senior staff of the Standard that specifies requirements for (General support and Service undertake a regular programme the handling of personal data collected development of Bush Fire of regional visits during which valuable during the course of non-operational Risk Information Management feedback on service provision is obtained. activities. This includes the personal System) particulars of Service members and Electronic Service Delivery recordings of non-operational radio and CCS Technology 309,275 The Service’s Applications Development telephone calls. (BRIMS Development and unit continued to support business Volunteer Intranet) activities. The Standard also provides for a confidentiality undertaking by officers Legal The volunteer intranet (MyRFS) was rolled with access to persona information Clayton Utz 58,307 out and there have been and will continue including the Service’s database ‘Firezone’. to be regular enhancements delivered The necessary access protocols and (General Support) as part of a programme of continuous procedures are in place. Total all Consultancies $585,329 improvement. Annual Report – External Three Year Comparative Costs There were a number of releases to the Costs and Availability Bush Fire Risk Information Management Four consultancies were retained during System (BRIMS) and as at 30 June the The total external costs incurred in the 2005/2006 at cost of $585,329 system was being used by approximately production of this report were $38,798. The report is accessible on the Service’s Fourteen consultancies were retained 1295 users from 11 government agencies during 2004/2005 at cost of $646,903. – an increase of 11.7% – and 420 local website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and copies government users. may be obtained from the Service’s Fourteen consultancies were retained headquarters at Homebush Bay. during 2003/2004 at cost of $1,530,143.
52 NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 Sale of Property Major Assets The Service does not own any property 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 or land. $ $ $
Payment Performance Computer Equipment 240,000 758,000 2,203,000 A summary of the Service’s payment General Equipment 9,725,000 11,338,000 10,619,000 performance for the year under review, and the two previous years, is set out in Fitout 2,000,000 4,368,000 3,934,000 Appendix J. Intangibles – – 102,000 The Service continues to meet its set targets and has done so through greater Grants to Outside Organisations use of direct bank deposits. 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 There was no interest paid for late $ $ $ payments. Nature Conservation Council 83,700 80,667 82,685 Volunteer Units (through Office for Emergency Services) 950,000 1,300,000 1,290,000 Rural Fire Service Association 70,000 – – Total 1,103,700 1,380,667 1,372,685
Consumer Response The Service continued to be well regarded by its customers and stakeholders. Any complaints received are given attention and resolved at the earliest opportunity.
Overseas Visits Details of overseas visits by staff are set out in Appendix ‘ O’.
Executive Remuneration In light of the recognition by the State Government that the public has the clear right to know how much senior public servants are paid and the need for more transparency in the reporting of senior executive salaries at level 5 or above, the following information is provided: Position SES Level Total Annual Remuneration Commissioner Mr P C Koperberg 6 $267,300
NSW Rural Fire Service Annual Report 2005-2006 53