NSW SESVA Update April 2026

Dear Members,

We’re pleased to share some important updates and initiatives from the NSW SES Volunteers Association as we continue our commitment to supporting, representing and advocating for our members across NSW.

The Volunteer Magazine – April Edition Out Now

The April 2026 edition of The Volunteer Magazine is available to view online, showcasing the incredible work, stories and achievements from across our volunteer community.

View the latest and past editions here:
https://www.nswsesva.org.au/the-volunteers-magazine.html

Hard copies have been distributed to all Units.

Submissions for our June Edition
We are now calling for submissions for the June 2026 edition. We encourage members and Units to share:

• Operational highlights
• Training experiences
• Community engagement stories
• Volunteer shout-outs
• High-quality photos

Submission deadline: 20 May 2026
Please email contributions to: editor@nswsesva.org.au

Your stories are what make this publication so impactful—thank you to everyone who contributes.

RESCA Awards – Nominations Closing Soon

The Rotary NSW Emergency Services Community Awards (RESCA) nominations are closing soon!

NSW SES Volunteers Association is proud to have supported these awards for over a decade.

Across our emergency services, incredible acts of dedication and service happen every day—often without recognition. This is your opportunity to shine a light on those making a real difference.

Nominations close: 30 April 2026

Don’t let a great story go untold—take a moment to nominate a fellow NSW SES member and help celebrate the impact of our volunteers.

Expression of Interest – Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee

The NSW SES Volunteers Association is proud to announce the establishment of our Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee — a significant step forward in strengthening representation, voice and leadership within our Association.

This Committee will play an important role in guiding our reconciliation journey and supporting the development of our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). Most importantly, it ensures Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices are central in shaping the future of our Association — both in how we engage with communities and how we support our members.

We are committed to creating a space where cultural knowledge, lived experience and leadership inform our work in a meaningful and ongoing way.

We are inviting Expressions of Interest from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander NSW SESVA members.

This is an opportunity to:

• Contribute to meaningful change within the Association
• Strengthen representation and cultural safety
• Help shape volunteer support and advocacy
• Be part of our reconciliation journey

To express your interest, please email: office@nswsesva.org.au

This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identified role. Aboriginality is a genuine occupational qualification authorised under Section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW).

Together, we walk forward with respect, strength and shared purpose. Thankyou to those that have already sent in EOIs.

Recognising Our Members – Flood Citation Ceremonies

The NSW SES Volunteers Association recently attended award ceremonies recognising members for their service during the devastating NSW flood events.

It was a valuable opportunity to connect with members outside of operational environments, reflect on the challenges faced, and celebrate the incredible contributions made across our communities.

SESVA is proud to have advocated to government for recognition of these events over recent years — and our work is not done.

Stay tuned for further updates on additional advocacy work currently underway.

Fuel Support Program – Delivering Where It Matters Most

Over the past few weeks, the SESVA team has travelled throughout NSW delivering fuel support and assistance directly to affected members.

We have met with volunteers in regional areas, listened to their experiences, and gained valuable insight into the real challenges impacting their ability to remain active.

The response to this program has been significant, with strong demand across the state.

💬 To those currently on the waitlist — we hear you. We are prioritising efforts and will get to you.

Your feedback continues to shape our support programs.

Our view is simple: support should reflect what members actually need — not what others think you need.

Doubling Down on Support

Our recent travels have reinforced the very real impact that rising fuel costs and cost of living pressures are having on our members.

As a result, we are doubling down. We remain committed to delivering practical, meaningful support — quietly, directly and where it matters most.

Stay Connected

To keep up to date with SESVA initiatives, welfare support, scholarships, grants and advocacy:

• Visit our website
• Follow our social media channels
• Read our newsletters and magazine
• Or contact us directly

Email - office@nswsesva.org.au   Phone - 1300 073 782

Thank you for everything you do for your communities and for one another.

Warm regards,

NSW SES Volunteers Association

Proudly supporting members since 1997