Dozens of new recruits have joined the MFS over the past 12 months, as the agency works to attract more women and improve gender diversity within its ranks.
Three squads comprising 65 new firefighters have graduated in the 2023-24 financial year, including last week’s graduation class of 20 recruits – Course 62.
It follows the new graduates displaying their skills at the State Training Centre, at Brukunga, in front of family and friends.
Nearly 100 women are employed in the MFS, including more than 30 frontline female firefighters – with women representing just over one-in-ten applications received for this year’s intake.
A host of measures are underway to increase these numbers and better represent the wider South Australian community, including cultural diversity.
Steps taken include developing a targeted recruitment campaign, focusing on ‘come and try’ events for certain drills and information nights to demonstrate what the profession involves and bust common myths.
The MFS recently carried out independent market research which found women often believe they lack the fitness and stature required in a male-dominated environment and the job is only suitable for men.
The findings also note a perception the recruitment process is difficult to navigate, and applicants only have a moderate chance of being selected – something the MFS is determined to change.
Efforts to modernise and standardise recruitment processes across metropolitan and regional areas will continue to build over the coming months.
Click for photos of new MFS recruit Tessa.
As put by Dan Cregan
Our new firefighters are joining a highly skilled and capable workforce which serves communities across the state.
The Government is supporting the MFS to attract South Australians who have what it takes – regardless of gender. Through these efforts, we anticipate more women will find a career in the MFS.
As put by MFS Chief Officer Jeff Swann
Diversity is important within our workforce, as it creates a culture that is inclusive and reflective of the South Australian community.
By building diversity in the MFS it enables our workforce to interact and engage with the community we serve.
As put by new MFS recruit Tessa Hawkes
As a kid, I’ve always just loved the outdoors – you’d probably find me playing marks up on the footy field with the guys at lunchtime.
I knew the office life was never going to be for me and the emergency services really stood out to me leaving high school.
I’d say to other women it’s 100 per cent achievable if you put in the hard work and I can’t wait to get out there and serve the community.
