Managing an emergency service organisation is complex and highly specialised.  Not only do AFAC member agencies provide specialist emergency management services but they also manage some of the biggest vehicle fleets, communications networks, equipment maintenance stores and information management services in the Australasian region.

With approximately 250,000 staff and volunteers they also manage some of the largest workforces, with volunteer management a specialised area in itself.

The business of emergency management is inherently risky and priorities in this area include workplace health and safety arrangements, procurement opportunities and sharing of approaches to various aspects of managing an emergency service.