Objectives
Representing Volunteers
To be an independent and representative organisation that promotes and represents the interests, views and concerns of State Emergency Service (SES) Volunteers throughout Western Australia.
Communicating and Sharing Information
To promote knowledge, understanding and awareness of matters affecting SES Volunteers through the effective communication and distribution of relevant information, news and resources.
Provide a Voice for Volunteers
To provide a strong, independent and effective voice for SES Volunteers by advocating for their interests, recognising their contributions and representing their views to government, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), local authorities and other relevant organisations.
SESVA Role
To represent and advocate for the views, interests, and welfare of State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers throughout Western Australia. The Association engages with all levels of government- Federal, State, and Local as well as the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), non-government organisations, and other relevant agencies on matters affecting SES volunteers. It works to ensure that volunteers have a strong voice in decisions, policies, and initiatives that impact their ability to effectively prepare for, respond to, and support their communities during emergencies and disasters.
Key SESVA Activities
DFES
- Meetings with DFES Commissioner and Senior Executive to discuss strategic, policy and high-level issues
- Resolution workshops with DFES Chief Superintendents to negotiate operational and other issues
- Active membership of specialist development groups
- Working with DFES to influence the WOW Day, WAFES conference and awards night
SES Units
- Attend Regional Local Managers meetings (when invited) to promote SES Volunteering and provide updates on SESVA activities
- Proactively facilitate and advocate for SES Units.
- SESVA Regional Representatives to be an effective conduit between the SESVA and Local SES Units and Volunteers
- Promote community resilience through volunteering
- Facilitate and support Regional Exercises
- Facilitate Local managers meetings to provide information sessions on future DFES Legislation
Committees, Sub Committee and Groups
- The Management Committee is the deliberative body of the Association that has the power to manage the affairs of the Association
- The Executive Committee is made up of the president, vice presidents, secretary and treasurer.
- The Legislation Review Group is made of various Executive members and subject matter experts
- History Committee - role to record historical SES events and material
- SES Volunteer Training Advisory Group - role to provide input on SES Volunteer Training
- SES Training Manager PAT
- SEMC Capability Sub Committee
- National SESVA Board - The SESVA President is one of the Director on the Board of the NSESVA
- SES PPC - role to provide input and advice on protective clothing
- SES Volunteer Advisory Committee - SESVA is a member of this committee to provide input on SES Volunteer matters
- WA Emergency Services Volunteer Hardship Scheme Management Committee member - to provide SESVA input to the management and operation of the scheme
National SES Volunteers Association (NSESVA)
- The SESVA (WA) President is a Director on the board of the National SESVA and is presently the Chair of the Board
- Contribute to the Australian Emergency Management Volunteers Forum (AEMVF) on matters that could affect SES Volunteers