Behind the Fireline: The Hidden Workforce of the NSW Rural Fire Service

In this episode, Assistant Secretary Troy Wright sits down with two PSA delegates from the NSW Rural Fire Service — Jim Killeen and John Osmond — to uncover the often-overlooked professional workforce that keeps the RFS running behind the scenes. They explore the essential roles staff play in community protection, risk planning, hazard reduction, volunteer support, fleet logistics, and emergency coordination across New South Wales.The conversation also dives into:The reality of year-round fire preparedness across NSWHow the RFS works with private landowners, brigades, and other agenciesThe evolution of the RFS and its unique volunteer-staff modelA major PSA win on overtime rights for RFS employeesEmerging health and safety challenges, including PFAS exposure and presumptive cancer legislationA timely and insightful discussion as NSW heads into another fire season.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the PSA CPSU NSW Podcast and follow us across all our social channels to stay updated and support the work of members across the state.