Recruitment is underway for new Project Firefighters (PFFs) who want to play a part in keeping their communities safe this upcoming bushfire season.
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Deputy Chief Fire officer, Bethany Roberts said, "Now more than ever, people understand how vital our Project Firefighters are in protecting their communities and the environment.
"We're looking for people from all walks of life and backgrounds to join Forest Fire Management Victoria over the summer season to help us with bushfire prevention and suppression in Gippsland's parks and forests."
About 30 positions are available in the Gippsland region for general firefighters and support officers with a number identified for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
"Project Firefighters are on the frontline fighting bushfires, conducting planned burns, managing roadside vegetation, maintaining access to fire trails and roads and supporting other emergency work," Dr Roberts said.
"No two days are the same and this is a great opportunity to learn new skills and be part of a diverse and inclusive team that helps protect our communities.
"Successful recruits receive comprehensive training and get the opportunity to work with experienced personnel from a range of fire management agencies. Many past PFFs have gone on to rewarding careers in permanent roles within the department.
The positions are based at more than 80 locations throughout the state, adding to the existing workforce of 300 firefighters on three year contracts.
Once recruitment is complete, there will be more than 1,000 frontline forest firefighters trained and ready for this coming season, with 600 PFFs and 340 permanent Forest Fire Operations Officers.
Crews will be supported by a further 2000 staff from across the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), Parks Victoria, Melbourne Water and VicForests who have a fire role in addition to their normal duties.
"These roles will help deliver our Safer Together program and ensure we work with regional communities to deliver the best outcomes for the community," Dr Roberts said.
Employment is full-time for a period of up to 26 weeks, generally starting between November and April. Applications for Project Firefighters are open from Friday, July 31 and close on Monday, August 23. For further information and to apply visit www.ffm.vic.gov.au or call 136 186.
