Hello to you
I’m taking some time this month to look at important information in our sector and how it may affect us now and in the future.
DFES appoints a new Deputy Commissioner Operations The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) welcomes Jon Broomhall AFSM as Deputy Commissioner Operations, commencing 3 August 2026.
Jon Broomhall brings more than 30 years of experience to the role. This includes nearly a lifetime of dedicated service in WA Surf lifesaving and an understanding of the volunteers’ work ethic. We warmly welcome Jon and look forward to creating many positive outcomes for the State Emergency Service Volunteers.
National Test for AusAlert
AusAlert will be ready to use in October 2026, but before it launches, the system needs to be tested across Australia. In a disaster, an AusAlert will tell you the type of emergency, where it’s located, how serious it is and what to do.
On Monday, 27 July 2026, a test alert will be sent to all mobile devices in Australia. This includes most smart-phones, smartwatches, and tablets. The test alert will be
sent at the same time across Australia, at 12:00 pm (AWST) in Western Australia.
H5 Bird Flu
Australia’s first detection of H5N1 Avian Influenza (H5 Bird Flu) was confirmed on Saturday, 20 June in a migratory bird in the Cape Le Grand area, east of Esperance. A second bird found in the area has also tested positive for Bird Flu, with another suspected detection and a confirmed case in South Australia on 24 June.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is the Hazard Management Agency leading the State Bird Flu response, in collaboration with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and the Department of Health, with national coordination led by the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).
Key messages from DPRID and DAFF for the community:
• Avoid contact with sick or dead birds or wildlife
• Record what you see
• Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline
on 1800 675 888. For more information on H5 Bird Flu, visit: Avian Influenza.
Upcoming changes to Fire Weather District boundaries The SES is advised that updated Fire Weather District (FWD) boundaries are expected to be introduced in mid-August 2026 as part of the ongoing refinement of the Australian Fire Danger Rating System (AFDRS). These changes incorporate improved scientific analysis, local knowledge, and stakeholder feedback. The updated districts are intended to improve how fire weather information and fire danger ratings are communicated. View the changes here: https://arcg.is/15C4j50
Thank you once again for doing what you do for whom you do it.
Regards,
Greg Cook ESM
President, WA SESVA