A significant agreement that acknowledges the roles and importance of South Australia’s emergency services volunteers is to be renewed.
For the first time since 2013, the Country Fire Service and State Emergency Service Volunteer Charters are to be signed by Premier, Peter Malinauskas, Minister for Emergency Services, Joe Szakacs and representatives from CFS, SES and SAFECOM.
Mr Szakacs said the selfless, tireless and life-saving work of volunteers would be acknowledged in the re-issuing of both Charters.
He said the intent of the Charters was to ensure that the safety of the South Australian community remained a priority for all; that consultation occurred with volunteers about all matters that affected them; that volunteers’ views were considered when approving or adopting new practices or policies and considered when consulting on proposed amendments to legislation; that volunteers’ views were considered when reviewing current legislation, practices or policies; that there was a mutual obligation and practical partnership based on respect between the parties; and a fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory approach was taken by all.
Mr Szakacs said the first charter was signed in 2008 by former Premier, Mike Rann, with the second signed in 2013 by former Premier, Jay Weatherill.
“Renewing the Charters shows the Government’s commitment to South Australia’s hard-working CFS and SES volunteers,” he said.
“We want volunteers and the community to know that we have great respect for their tireless efforts and lifesaving tasks.
“The Charters further develop vital relationships between CFS and SES volunteers and the Government of South Australia.”
The 2013 CFS Volunteer Charter can be accessed at this PS News link and the SES Volunteer Charter at this link.
