By Rosalyn Smith and Leila McEgan, South Australia Country Fire Service

In an era of rapid change, the traditional hierarchical structure of a volunteer firefighting brigade, along with other volunteer emergency service agencies, face significant challenges. This presentation explores the necessity of adapting these structures to better manage volunteer groups, while maintaining the command-and-control approach essential for emergency service organisations.

The risks of maintaining the status quo are profound. Concentrating power with long-serving members based on tenure—rather than relevant skills—stifles innovation and excludes those newer members who come in with fresh perspectives, and specialised skills. Volunteer organisations must become more fluid to address high turnover rates, whilst leveraging the diversity within our communities to ensure access to a broader range of skills and viewpoints. Traditional power structures—those favouring stability—often result in slow and linear changes in leadership and decision-making processes, further entrenching the status quo.

This presentation will compare traditional hierarchical structures with alternative models such as project-based teams, rotating leadership roles, mentoring and skill development programs, and succession planning. It will highlight how these alternatives can supplement the traditional model, fostering a more dynamic and inclusive environment better suited to the needs of a modern volunteer emergency service organisation.

Real-life examples from the CFS will illustrate how hierarchical structure disruption is already helping shift outdated approaches. Further, it will explore the challenges faced by the unique cultural, demographic, and socio-economic characteristics making up brigades across the organisation. Attendees will be engaged through interactive discussions and encouraged to share their experiences and insights.

This presentation aims to inspire a rethinking of local-level traditional structures, promoting a more adaptable and inclusive approach to managing volunteer emergency organisations in a fast-changing world.