Release date: 18/05/22

A significant agreement that acknowledges the roles and importance of South Australia’s emergency services volunteers will be renewed.

For the first time since 2013, the Country Fire Service and State Emergency Service Volunteer Charters will be signed by Premier Peter Malinauskas, Minister for Emergency Services Joe Szakacs and CFS, SES and SAFECOM representatives.

The selfless, tireless and life-saving work of volunteers is acknowledged in the re-issuing of both Charters.

The intent of the Charters is to ensure that:

  • the safety of the South Australian community remains a priority for all,
  • consultation occurs with volunteers about all matters that affect them,
  • consideration of volunteers’ views when approving or adopting new practices or policies,
  • consideration of volunteers’ views when consulting on proposed amendments to legislation,
  • consideration of volunteers’ views when reviewing current legislation, practices or policies,
  • that there is a mutual obligation and practical partnership based on respect between the parties, and
  • that a fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory approach is taken by all

    Renewing the Charters soon after being elected was a task asked of the government by CFS and SES volunteers.

The first charter was signed in 2008 by former Premier Mike Rann, with the second signed in 2013 by former Premier Jay Weatherill.

The Government of South Australia supports and recognises the role that emergency service Volunteers play in our community. The Government supports the energy, dedication and professionalism of CFS and SES volunteers by providing support to emergency services.

The day also marks Wear Orange Wednesday, an SES initiative to mark a sign of respect and gratitude to the more than 1600 volunteers across SA.


Quotes

Attributable to Minister for Emergency Services Joe Szakacs

Renewing the Charters shows the Government’s commitment to South Australia’s hard-working CFS and SES volunteers.

We want volunteers and the community to know that we have great respect for their tireless efforts and lifesaving tasks.

The Charters further develop vital relationships between CFS and SES volunteers and the Government of South Australia.