Ever thought about a career as a firefighter?
CFA is always keen to increase the number of women amongst its career firefighter ranks and actively encourages women to apply. Below are some common questions that we are often asked.
Recruits come to CFA with a whole range of work and life backgrounds.
It doesn’t matter if you have never used a firefighting hose or driven a truck – if you are successful with your application, all relevant training is provided.
Provided you meet the suitability and eligibility requirements, the main pre-requisite is a willingness to work hard and learn.
We recommend you read the FAQs at www.cfa.vic.gov.au in the Applicant Information Guide to find out more.
Watch a video with CFA Career Firefighter Josey Sensi
CFA Career Firefighter Josey Sensi talks about her experiences as a firefighter and as an instructor on CFA's career firefighter course at CFA Training College.
Benchmarks and testing
All applicants need to achieve certain fitness benchmarks to progress through the recruitment process . It’s important to be aware these are the same for everyone regardless of age or gender.
Upper body strength is an important requirement to perform competently in this role. Some women find they need to do extra physical training in this area.
If you have never undergone a Beep Test, you should at least have a go at it at in your own time but preferably with someone else to push you along. Use a partner, friend or trainer to help you. If you are unable to obtain a copy of the beep test CD, then simulate it as much as possible with your training. (e.g. mark out a line 20 metres apart and train between those lines progressively getting faster each minute).
CFA recommends a holistic approach to preparation for the recruitment process. For a number of women the physical PRACTICAL ABILITY TEST (PAT) has proven to be the most challenging part of the recruitment process. Our 'Practice' PAT is an essential self-assessment tool and can help you further prepare for success.
Please refer to our Physical Assessment and Information Guide (found under forms and guides).
Firefighting and reproductive health
CFA is committed to meeting its obligations under the OH&S Act and supports best practice safety review mechanisms to ensure that the health and safety of all of our members is protected at all times.
Pregnancy and maternity leave
If you become pregnant while employed as a career firefighter, CFA will work with you and a medical practitioner and adjust your duties accordingly. Many firefighters have had babies and then returned following maternity leave.
For more information visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au
CFA is a proud partner with the Victorian Womens Football League.
The VWFL is currently experiencing strong growth with team numbers in the competition expanding from 36 in 2015 to 51 in 2016.
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Last Modified on 31/05/2016 12:33