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We can’t keep relying on the ADF to respond to natural disasters – how to rebuild our emergency volunteer workforce [SES etc] (theconversation.com)
submitted 1 year ago by to c/australia@aussie.zone
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Recruitment incentives are needed to boost the number of emergency services volunteers to respond to natural disasters and take the pressure off the ADF.

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[–] 5 points 1 year ago (2 children)

I looked into volunteering for the local SES once (when I was looking for stuff to do with my life after uni) and they turned me down, so actually accepting people who are interested is something that might help with their numbers.

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  • [–] 4 points 1 year ago

    I wouldn’t usually say this, but same here. I spend three months of the year in a leadership position (with some operational requirements) with the a United Nations agency in disaster relief in South Asia (volunteer with some fringe benefits - meals, accommodation etc.). Have done so since 2004. Apparently I’m not of use to the SES (QLD). I’ll just keep ensuring that global disasters are managed appropriately whilst the experts back home keep everything going here.

    I was in Brisbane for the local weather event. I contacted the SES again. Again, no use. Instead I personally contacted a few disability support organisations and arranged to fill sandbags and install them at their clients homes (I did over 30 homes). Interestingly, the SES and others were nowhere to be seen. Seems they could have used some assistance.

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  • [–] 3 points 1 year ago

    Local units have the responsibility for training all their new members, so if they receive too many applications (or they lack the capability to train new people) they will have to turn people away.

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