The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Senator David Feeney, today welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW) and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in Sydney.

About 120 firefighters serve as ADF Reservists in NSW.

This MOU will make it easier for these Reservists to be deployed, go on exercises and undertake periods of ADF training.

“Reservists play an important role in defending Australia’s national security interests – both at home and abroad,” Senator Feeney said.

“As Fire and Rescue specialists and as ADF Reservists, the men and women of the FRNSW generously spend significant amounts of time serving their country and their community.

“It can be challenging for employers to release their employees for service on Defence operations in the region or at home and still maintain regular services.

“However, the FRNSW has acknowledged that there are measures that can be taken to lessen this challenge.

“By signing this MOU the FRNSW is not only supporting its employees but also supporting Australia.”

Fire & Rescue NSW Commissioner Greg Mullins joined the Head of Defence’s Cadet, Reserve and Employer Support Division Major General Paul Brereton to sign the MOU.

Commissioner Mullins said he was pleased to strengthen an already solid partnership between Fire & Rescue NSW and ADF.

“This MOU will greatly assist our firefighters to balance two careers that make such a difference to our society,” Commissioner Mullins said.

Major General Brereton said Defence was working to formalise relationships with police and emergency services across Australia.

“The signing of an MOU between Defence and Fire & Rescue NSW will benefit all parties involved,” Major General Brereton said.

“Many of them are police or emergency service personnel, and these MOUs clarify the relationship and responsibilities of both employers, so that they work in harmony in the national interest.”

Media Contact:

Lorna Clarke (Senator Feeney’s office) 0408 345 730