In a significant statewide initiative, over 40 Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) stations now feature traditional Indigenous nation names on their fire trucks, alongside current geographical names.
This effort aims to honor and recognize the original custodianship of the land while integrating Aboriginal languages and insights into the public's awareness.
The nation naming conventions were officially launched today during a ceremony at the Emergency Services Academy in western Sydney.
Honorary Naming Expands Statewide
Fire trucks will display distinctive Indigenous artwork to convey stories and reinforce a sense of identity
The approach, previously implemented in the state's New England region and north-west, extends to a state-wide adoption.
The initial 43 FRNSW stations incorporating the nation names include Campbelltown, City of Sydney, Mount Druitt, Redfern, and Ropes Crossing.
These names have been identified and confirmed in collaboration with community elders, Aboriginal land councils, and other cultural representatives. Additionally, fire trucks will display distinctive Indigenous artwork to convey stories and reinforce a sense of identity and belonging.
Enhancing Cultural Awareness Through Language
According to Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke, the initiative serves to broaden the understanding of the more than 30 Aboriginal languages spoken across New South Wales.
"By introducing nation names on our fire truck fleet, we recognize our history, helping connect with First Nation Australians, and celebrating their heritage across NSW," stated Ms. Cooke.
Supporting Indigenous Communities
FRNSW Commissioner Paul Baxter emphasized that this initiative represents a step forward in ongoing reforms designed to acknowledge, support, and advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"Through systematic, and structural changes, FRNSW is committed to strengthening our partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Recognizing the traditional owners of the land on which we work is just one step we can take to better reflect the communities we serve," Commissioner Baxter noted.
This effort aligns with FRNSW's core belief that diversity enhances service quality, drives innovation, and prepares the organization for the future, as outlined in their 'Plus Plan' for organizational change.
Commitment to Indigenous Recruitment
The initiative complements FRNSW's Indigenous Fire and Rescue Employment Strategy (IFARES) program, which actively recruits Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals.
Since its inception, the program has successfully brought 90 Aboriginal Australian firefighters into the fold, underscoring the agency's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
