Celebrating 70 years of service

In the beginning

Founded in 1955 in response to the catastrophic Maitland flood, which devastated the Hunter Valley, Central West, and North West regions, the NSW SES was established to enhance emergency preparedness and response across the state. Initially known as the Civil Defence Service until the 1970s, the organisation has since evolved into a vital force in disaster response and community support.

70 years ago, devastating floods led to the birth of the NSW SES

Then and now

From utes and personal vehicles

In the early years after our establishment in 1955, NSW SES relied on limited resources. Many members used their own vehicles, often basic utes or boats for emergency response.

Evolving our fleet

Today, NSW SES operates a purpose-built, state-of-the-art fleet. This includes flood rescue vehicles, storm response trucks, command trailers, and rescue boats designed specifically for the challenges we face across NSW.

Black and white image of Signals demonstration at State Headquarters July 1960

Before the digital age

Communication in the early days was often done via landlines, CB radios, and handwritten logs. Maps were printed, and planning was manual.

Photo: Signals demonstration at State Headquarters, July 1960.

Person scrolling through an NSW SES zones map on a tablet.

Embracing technology

We now use real-time data, satellite imagery, GPS mapping, drones, mobile apps, and integrated emergency communication platforms to coordinate responses faster and more effectively.

No standardised uniform

Initially, there was no standardised uniform, members often wore white or blue overalls or practical clothing suited to the task. Orange as a standard colour was only introduced in later decades.

Three NSW SES members, each wearing distinct uniforms, standing in front of a NSW SES vehicle while working in the field.

Our iconic orange uniform

Our iconic orange uniform is now instantly recognisable across Australia. Designed for visibility and protection, it includes high-vis elements, PPE, and fit-for-purpose designs for flood, storm, and rescue work.

Sydney Harbour 25 June 1965 Opera House at rear — Photo: Rescue boats during the establishment of a Civil Defence Organisation on Sydney Harbour, with the Opera House in the background dated 25 June, 1965.

NSW SES Timeline

For seven decades, our volunteers have been at the forefront of some of NSW’s most significant natural disasters, including the Sydney Hailstorm, the Thredbo landslide, and the devastating Northern Rivers floods. Today, with a strong network of 11,000 volunteers, the NSW SES continues to provide life-saving assistance during storms, floods, and emergencies.

To commemorate this milestone, a series of events and media activations will be held across NSW in 2025, celebrating the resilience, dedication, and history of the Service.

Join us as we honour 70 years of commitment to protecting communities and looking ahead to the future of emergency response in NSW.

February 1955 – Devastating floods sweep through Maitland, the Hunter Valley, Central West and North West of NSW.

26 April 1955 – A Cabinet submission proposed the establishment of a new government body, the ‘State Emergency Services’ to coordinate and manage the state's flood response.

2 May 1955 – A Cabinet Minute proposed the establishment of a Civil Defence Organisation, which would include the State Emergency Services, tasked with managing civilian protection in the event of war.

September 1955 – The two agencies were merged into a single entity known as the ‘Civil Defence Organisation and State Emergency Services’.

1972 – The State Emergency Services and Civil Defence Act was passed by Parliament. This Act remained in force until 1989.

September 1989 – The SES formally assumed combat agency responsibility for storm damage.

1989 – The Act was replaced by the State Emergency Act 1989.

Notable moments in disaster response

Sydney Hailstorm 1999

One of Australia's most expensive natural disasters, the 1999 Sydney hailstorm caused widespread damage across the city, smashing roofs, cars, and windows with hailstones as large as cricket balls.

NSW SES volunteers worked around the clock, responding to thousands of requests for help, making damaged homes safe, and helping residents recover in the weeks that followed.

Kiama Tornado 2013

In 2013, a rare tornado swept through parts of Kiama, causing property damage, fallen trees, and localised power outages.

The NSW SES was quick to respond, clearing debris, helping secure damaged buildings, and supporting affected communities as they returned to safety.

Northern Rivers Flood 2022

The 2022 Northern Rivers floods were among the worst in NSW history, with record-breaking rainfall submerging towns like Lismore and leaving thousands stranded.

NSW SES led a massive flood rescue effort, including rooftop rescues, supply drops, and evacuations, with support from other agencies and volunteers across the country.

Black and white photo, residents sitting on a roof in Windsor, NSW 1961 - Barry Gibbs Collection Hawkesbury City — Photo: Black and white photo of residents moving to higher ground, sitting on a rooftop during flooding in Windsor, NSW in 1961. – Barry Gibbs Collection, Hawkesbury City.

Historical story maps

Lismore flood event 2016

Severe weather affected eastern NSW in June due to an East Coast Low that formed offshore in southern QLD and moved south. These images show the impact on Lismore locations and some response activities conducted by the NSW SES.

Northern Beaches event 2015

Northern Beaches all hazards historic photo exhibition 2015

Severe Weather Event Eastern NSW 2014

A low over northwest NSW and associated series of low pressure systems near the Illawarra coast has resulted in heavy rain, gale force winds and dangerous surf conditions in the Sydney, Illawarra and South Coast areas.

NSW flood events 2012

Year review of major flood events throughout the state of New South Wales in 2012. Compiled by the NSW State Emergency Service. Flood extents have been digitised from air photography flown by NSW Land & Property Information close to the flood peak.

Future ready

As emergencies evolve, so does the NSW SES. We are committed to staying ahead by embracing new technologies, strengthening partnerships, modernising our fleet, and investing in our volunteers. These key areas ensure we remain ready and work with communities now and into the future.

Enhanced technology

Leveraging AI, drones, and real-time data to improve disaster response and community safety.

Stronger partnerships

Working with emergency services, government, and communities to build resilience and preparedness.

Sustainable and modern fleet

Investing in advanced rescue vehicles, flood boats, and equipment to tackle evolving challenges.

Growing and empowering our members

Expanding training programs and leadership opportunities to ensure a skilled and adaptable workforce. Learn more about our training

Learn more

Training

The NSW SES is committed to developing our members, so they can help save lives and protect communities during emergencies.

Member spotlight

Volunteering with the NSW State Emergency Service is an exciting and rewarding way to give back to your community.

Two NSW SES volunteers having a conversation in front of a rescue truck.

Frequently asked questions

Interested in learning more about volunteering with the NSW SES? We've compiled some frequently asked questions to help.

WOW Day

Wear orange in appreciation of NSW SES volunteers.