Update on Fleet, Equipment and Uniforms
The SES Volunteers Association (SESVA) has begun discussions with the DFES Asset Management Division to improve collaboration and outcomes for volunteers. Encouraging progress is underway across fleet, uniforms and equipment, with DFES responding to the volunteer feedback received to date (per DFES General Circular 60/2026).
The following information is drawn from a report by Lilian Oh, SESVA Metro North Coastal region representative.
Fleet Improvements
Since January 2025, SES units have received:
- 38 General Rescue Units (GRUs)
- 3 General Rescue Trucks (GRTs)
- Two additional GRTs expected later this year
- Three additional truck chassis ordered
In response to feedback from the Natural Hazards Fleet Project Advisory Team (PAT), a trial logistics trailer has been built and delivered to SES Bridgetown and SES Moora for testing. Feedback from these units will inform the final design prior to full production.
A trial rescue trailer is due to be completed this month, and potential changes to GRT configurations are under consideration. The Natural Hazards PAT is scheduled to meet again by June to review feedback and discuss next steps.
New Volunteer Website
The new DFES volunteer website will include:
- A new online feedback form for Fleet, Equipment and Facilities (including uniforms)
- Measurement guides for Personal Protective Clothing (PPC) and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Fitting and care instructions (initially for boots and helmets)
- Simplified access to DFES Doctrine, including Directives, SAPs and SOPs
Planned future enhancements include:
- QR codes on all uniforms linking directly to care instructions
- Expanded fitting and care guidance for PPC and uniforms
- Videos and photos to support ordering systems and training
Uniforms and PPC Updates
DFES will review the quality and suitability of boot options before the current supplier contract expires.
A Women’s Project Advisory Team continues to provide feedback on women’s uniforms, PPC and PPE.
Following SESVA queries regarding sizing of blue shirts and lightweight PPC, Stuart and Heaton have confirmed they will honour refunds for new, unused items even if slightly outside the standard 30-day refund period.
Current ordering options:
- Standard sizes
- Custom preset options (e.g. long‑fit pants)
- Made‑to‑measure items
Where these options remain unsuitable, units may request alterations to existing garments through DFES regional management.
Other Equipment Updates
Feedback regarding poor‑quality knee pads was attributed to a temporary material shortage. DFES has advised that the original knee pads are now back in stock.
New navy wide‑brim floppy (search) hats are now available. These are the same design and fabric used by other volunteer services, are foldable, and will not shrivel or pucker when washed. They are available to order online by Stores Officers.
Providing Feedback
DFES welcomes further feedback from volunteers. Providing detailed descriptions, photos and supporting evidence will assist in improving fleet, equipment and uniform outcomes.
Feedback can be submitted via www.dfes.wa.gov.au/ppc or by or using the QR code or by contacting ord@dfes.wa.gov.au for information on Project Advisory Teams.
SESVA will continue working with Asset Management and provide regular updates. Units are encouraged to share this information widely, particularly with Stores Officers.
