Media release

Considering a career in firefighting? Come and try before you apply!

Fire and Rescue

Territorians interested in a career in firefighting will have the chance to try before they apply, ahead of the next recruitment drive in June 2025.

The NT Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) is hosting Come and Try days in Darwin at 9am on 22 March at Foskey Pavilion Darwin Show Grounds and in Alice Springs at 9am on the 29 March at St Phillips College.

The events offer those considering a career with NTFRS an opportunity to experience components of the recruitment Physical Aptitude Test (PAT) and receive expert tips on preparing to become a firefighter from those who live the role every day.

The PAT combines both fitness assessments and on the job tasks, making it a reliable indicator of an applicant's ability to carry out the physically demanding tasks required of operational firefighters during an emergency and at incidents.

While challenging, the PAT is achievable with proper training and preparation. The Come and Try day is designed to give participants valuable insight into what’s involved and allow time to start their training ahead of the upcoming recruitment.

A career as a Firefighter in the Northern Territory is both rewarding and challenging, with no two days being the same. As a firefighter, you’ll be on the frontline, working as a close-knit team helping to serve and protect the community by:

  • Fighting fires to safeguard lives, property and the environment
  • Responding to emergency incidents, such as motor vehicle accidents, HAZMAT incidents, and other emergencies
  • Providing community education and preparedness programs
  • Implementing fire mitigation and prevention strategies
  • Inspecting building compliance and fire safety

Future firefighters have two weeks to register their interest in the come and try day. Register now for Darwin https://tinyurl.com/v4atu66s and Alice Springs https://tinyurl.com/33m8sfzc

Registrations are essential.

Fore more information about a career in firefighting visit Careers in Firefighting | NT Police, Fire & Emergency Services

Quotes attributable to Chief Fire Officer, Stephen Sewell AFSM:

"Becoming a Firefighter can be a challenging process, so our Come and Try days are designed to give prospective applicants an insight into the fitness components. It also provides them with enough time to ramp up their training and set new goals ahead of the next recruitment round in June."

"Firefighters must work in confrontational and high-pressure situations, especially when responding to incidents involving injury or loss of life. This role is physically and psychologically demanding, requiring critical thinking and teamwork in every incident response – which is why we need to ensure we get the right people in the roles."

Being a Firefighter is more than just a job – it’s a calling, dedicated to service and community. We’re seeking individuals passionate about making a difference in the Northern Territory, particularly in remote and regional areas.

The recent formation of NT Fire and Emergency Services, combining the NT Fire and Rescue Service, NT Emergency Service, and Bushfires NT, enhances our ability to respond to emergencies while prioritising community resilience.

Media Contact:
Rickie Abraham
Phone: 8923 980