NSW Rural Fire Service
Creating a scalable, self-paced induction program for NSW Rural Fire Service’s Bush Fire Management Committees.
- Government
- eLearning Development
- Animation
- Video
PROBLEM
The NSW Rural Fire Service engaged Strawberry Solutions to develop a scalable induction solution for Bush Fire Management Committees (BFMCs). These committees play a vital role in bushfire prevention, preparedness, and community response across New South Wales.
Previously, training and onboarding relied on in-person sessions and static documentation, making it difficult to ensure consistency and accessibility for volunteers located throughout the State. The challenge was to create engaging, self-paced modules that clearly outlined the committee’s purpose, structure, and operational processes while incorporating diverse perspectives from existing members.
SOLUTION
Strawberry Solutions designed and developed five interactive online modules to introduce new committee members to their roles and responsibilities. The learning experience combined animation, annotated video, and interactive activities to engage participants and reinforce understanding.
Key components of the solution:
- Authentic insights
Featuring interviews and experiences from current BFMC members to contextualise learning. - Process clarity
Step-by-step guidance on governance, legislative responsibilities, and operational software. - Interactive learning
Reflection points and activities to encourage learners to think critically about their role in bushfire management. - Accessible delivery
The modules were built for flexible, self-paced access to support volunteers across regional and remote areas. Software videos also provided separately so they could be provided in micro learning chunks in the BFMC portal.
VALUE DELIVERED
The completed suite of modules provides the NSW RFS with a comprehensive, on-demand induction program for all BFMC members.
- Consistent onboarding for new and existing volunteers.
- Enhanced understanding of legal obligations, planning, and response coordination.
- Reduced reliance on in-person training sessions, saving time and resources.
- Improved engagement and retention through real-world insights and interactivity.
This project supports the RFS’s broader mission of building safer, more informed communities through effective training and volunteer empowerment.
NSW Rural Fire Service now delivers a consistent, accessible, and engaging induction experience that equips BFMC members across the state with the knowledge they need to contribute confidently to bushfire prevention, preparedness, and response.
