Volunteer selection and screening practices
The Need
The topic of arson and deliberately fires was examined in the Bushfires Royal Commission. One particular component of interest to AFAC was evidence on the psychological screening of firefighters to prevent arson. AFAC has produced a draft paper on this topic, however more research and evidence is required to develop a formal position on this subject.
All volunteer agencies acknowledge this is a significant issue and a position needs to be developed.
Benefits and Strategic Alignment
The area of arson can often be emotive. Some of the Black Saturday fires were deliberately lit leading to a large loss of life and property. And public perceptions of firefighters are influenced by the small number of firefighters convicted of arson.It is important that in the development of this position that any directions on arson screening for volunteers are supported by research and evidence.
Proposal
It is proposed that an AFAC Position will be developed on volunteer screening. This will not include fitness, but may link to the work produced by the ‘fit for duty’ project at some stage in the future. The position will cover issues such as criminal record checks and psychological screening processes.Consultation
The Workforce Management Group has endorsed this project. The project will be managed by the Volunteer Management Sub Group. Consultation with other emergency management organisations on their screening processes may be required.Governance
This project has the endorsement of volunteer agencies via the Workforce Management Group and the Volunteer Management Sub Group. The initial paper produced for the Royal Commission has also had Committee of Management endorsement.For more information on this project contact Judy Gouldbourn, AFAC Manager, Workforce Management
