For emergency assistance during a flood, storm or tsunami, call NSW SES on 132 500   In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
NSW SES
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Volunteer

Whatever your skills, experience or interests, join thousands of people across the state who are committed to helping their communities.

Make a difference

Whether you want to provide on-ground support, assist in operations or raise awareness, there’s countless ways you can make an impact in your community.

The NSW SES is encouraging people from all walks of life to consider volunteering. 

Why join the NSW SES?

Support your community

Engage in meaningful volunteer work by helping your community to prepare and respond to weather events.

Develop your skills

By volunteering with us you will be able to learn new skills, further develop existing skills and access a variety of professional and leadership development opportunities.

Meet new people

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and at NSW SES that can be anyone from student to CEO. Meet like-minded people and build networks within your community.

Ways you can volunteer

There are lots of roles that you can do depending on what you like and what you want to learn. Whether providing on-the-ground support, assisting in operational support roles or raising community awareness through education programs, there are many ways to be part of NSW SES.

NSW SES unit volunteer Daniel Doody

There are lots of roles that you can do depending on what you like and what you want to learn. Whether providing on-the-ground support, assisting in operational support roles or raising community awareness through education programs, there are many ways to be part of NSW SES.

Three NSW SES community action team volunteers filling sandbags.

Community Action Teams provide smaller communities and groups with an opportunity to volunteer with the NSW SES. 

Four Spontaneous volunteers working together holding sandbags and chairs.

Spontaneous Volunteers are community members who volunteer in one-off events to support the NSW SES during emergencies.

How to apply

Submit your application

Submit your application via the online application form.

Meet with us

Participate in an interview so we can chat about your skills and experience and match you to a volunteering opportunity with NSW SES.

Complete a Criminal History check

If you are successful in getting through to the next stage, you'll be required to complete a Criminal History Check.

Get started

Congratulations! Your volunteer journey begins.

NSW SES volunteers

Apply now

Everyone is welcome. Fill out our step-by-step application and we’ll contact you within the week.

Learn more

NSW SES volunteers practicing rescue training.

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

Volunteer 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.

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

WOW Day 2023

Wear orange in appreciation of NSW SES volunteers.

Want more information?

Contact our volunteer support


1800 201 000 
experience@ses.nsw.gov.au

A male and female NSW SES volunteers, fully equipped in gear, standing in front of an NSW SES truck.