Aviation Rescue and Fire Fighting

ARFF Careers

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the next round of recruitment being advertised?
We anticipate we will advertise nationally in June/July 2010 for positions in 2010/2011.
Where can I obtain an application form?
Applicants are required to complete an online application when we advertise in July/August 2010.
When is the next training course commencing?
We may run up to 5 courses during 2010/2011.
Do recruits work on weekends?
Yes, you may be required to work nights and weekends as required while attending the 10 week recruit course and whilst completing 24/7 shift work at the Fire Station.
What is the salary for ARFF Services?
The starting salary during the 10 week recruit course will be $26,657 and upon successful completion of the training course the salary will be a minimum of $47,073 pa plus 12.5% superannuation. Travel, accommodation and a meal allowance during the 10 week recruit course will also be paid.
What if I can’t get my Senior First Aid certificate or equivalent before the application is due?
Obtaining a Senior First Aid certificate or equivalent is mandatory. However, if you have booked into a course, please note this in your application in either the Senior First Aid section or the last question in your application titled 'additional information'. It is essential that you obtain the certificate prior to commencement of the recruit course.
What if my Senior First Aid certificate or equivalent is about to expire?
It is mandatory that your Senior First Aid certificate or equivalent remains current, therefore you should ensure that you renew it. We will require evidence of attainment during the Assessment Centre stage of the recruitment process.
Can I decide which location I prefer to work in?
ARFF Services is located throughout Australia, and we recruit to specific locations where a vacancy exists. You are able to indicate your location preference when you apply.

Locations we are recruiting for currently are: Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Canberra, Coolangatta, Darwin, Mackay, Perth and Townsville.
Can I get feedback throughout the recruitment process?
Yes, at each stage of the process we will advise you of the outcome, and who to contact to gain feedback.
What is a Water Competency?
Water rescue is required at a number of ARFF Fire Stations across Australia. If you are applying for a position at one of these stations you will be required to demonstrate a high level of swimming ability. This will be tested before your commencement with Airservices Australia.
Water rescue may involve search and rescue in open water, assisting local authorities with locating and rescuing missing boats and/or people and helping them to the safety of the water vessel. The stations that perform water rescue are:

Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Cairns, Hobart, Hamilton Island, Mackay, Maroochydore, Townsville and Coolangatta

If you currently possess any of the following you will not have be assessed:

RLSC Bronze Medallion

RLSC Bronze Star

RLSC Bronze Cross

RLSC Pool Lifeguard Award

RLSC Pool Lifeguard License

Other – please describe on your application form

If you do not possess the competencies above, you may be required to undertake a water competency assessment.

If you are required to undertake an assessment you will need to successfully complete the following:

Swim 50m in any stroke unaided

Tread water for two (2) minutes unaided without stopping.

Please have your swimming abilities assessed 32kb before applying for a role at a water rescue station.
If you do not provide a copy of the assessment form or other competency at the time of application you will not be considered further.