The Australian Firefighter Academy (AFA) offers a comprehensive membership that mirrors each stage of DFES's recruitment process, providing expert coaching, tailored training programs, and proven strategies to guide candidates through every step. With AFA’s support, aspiring firefighters can confidently prepare to meet DFES's high standards and achieve their dream career.
DEPARTMENT OF FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES
DFES
WHAT THE AFA MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES
CLICK ON COURSES FOR MORE INFO
ACADEMY INTRODUCTION COURSE
COGNITIVE APTITUDE COURSE
SHUTTLE RUN/BEEP TEST COURSE
RECRUIT COURSE PREP COURSE
APPLICATION READINESS COURSE
PSYCH PERSONALITY COURSE
PANEL INTERVIEW COURSE
TWO MONTHLY ONLINE GROUP SESSIONS WITH FIREFIGHTERS
RESUME BUILDER COURSE
PHYSICAL APTITUDE TEST COURSE
MEDICAL SCREENING COURSE
ALL THIS FOR $49/MONTH
NO LOCK IN CONTRACT
DFES RECRUITMENT STEPS & HOW THE AFA CAN HELP
Stage 1: Application
Candidates submit their initial application. AFA’s Resume Builder Course helps craft professional, tailored applications that highlight strengths, while the Application Readiness Course ensures candidates meet all eligibility criteria and provide accurate documentation.
Stage 2: Cognitive and Personality Assessments
Candidates complete cognitive ability and personality assessments. The Cognitive Aptitude Course equips candidates with problem-solving, reasoning, and communication strategies, while the Psychometric Personality Course helps them prepare for personality evaluations, ensuring alignment with DFES values.
Stage 3: Beep Test, Tunnel Crawl, and Circuit
This stage tests physical fitness and job-specific capabilities. The Beep Test/Shuttle Run Course builds the endurance needed for the beep test, while the PAT Course prepares candidates for the physical demands of the tunnel crawl and circuit tasks by enhancing strength, stamina, and functional fitness.
Stage 4: Written Assessment, Speed Interviews, and Panel Interviews
Candidates complete written tasks and participate in interviews. The Online Interview Course ensures candidates communicate effectively during speed interviews, while the Panel Interview Course prepares them to deliver structured, impactful responses in panel interviews.
Stage 5: Driving Proficiency, Medical Assessment, and Background Checks
Candidates undergo driving evaluations, medical screenings, and thorough background checks. AFA’s Medical Screening Course provides guidance on meeting health requirements and submitting the necessary documentation. The Application Readiness Course ensures compliance with all background checks, including working with children and police clearances.
Post-Employment: Recruit Training
After successful selection, candidates transition into recruit training. AFA’s Recruit Course Prep ensures physical and mental readiness for training, while Fortnightly Online Sessions with Firefighters provide ongoing support and mentorship to help candidates excel in their new role.