Workers Compensation Entitlements For NSW RFS Volunteers

Are NSW RFS Volunteers Covered by Workers Compensation?

Yes. Members of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) are entitled to workers compensation benefits if they suffer an injury or illness while undertaking authorised RFS activities.

These entitlements arise under the Workers Compensation (Bush Fire, Emergency and Rescue Services) Act 1987 (NSW), which recognises the essential role performed by volunteer emergency service personnel.

Although recent reforms to the NSW workers compensation scheme have introduced significant changes for many workers, particularly in relation to psychological injuries and claim administration, NSW RFS volunteers continue to benefit from important statutory protections. Many of the more restrictive provisions applying to non-exempt workers do not affect emergency service volunteers in the same way.