The RFBAQ has received multiple enquires from long term volunteer firefighters who have moved state, enquiring about their cancer coverage.
An example being a volunteer firefighter who served 10 years in the Victorian CFA and has been in a Queensland brigade for a further 10 years. These add up to 20 years of exposure for a cancer that has a 15-year qualifying period.
The current system does not see this volunteer firefighter covered for presumptive cancer coverage in either state. This is due to each state having different workers compensation / insurance schemes.
Alongside enabling legislation to empower brigades to fight fire, the other key foundation of brigades is workers compensation coverage. ie: if you are hurt or develop an illness in undertaking your firefighting activities, the State will support you and your family.
The lack of portability for cancer coverage is not meeting one of those two keystones of volunteer firefighter support.
The RFBAQ has requested that National Cabinet work with Australian Fire Authorities Council (AFAC) to develop a simple and portable cancer coverage scheme that supports volunteer firefighters who serve their communities across multiple jurisdictions.
This week the RFBAQ has written to the Prime Minister as convenor of National Cabinet, to each state/territory Premier / Chief Minister and to AFAC CEO Rob Webb, seeking the commencement of discussion towards a unified national approach. Every journey starts with the first step.
The upcoming 2026 fire season will see the need for each and every brigade volunteer to put their health and safety on the line for their communities.
Initial responses to the letters have been positive.
