Join. Learn. Be Ready

Today I launched the “Join. Learn. Be Ready” program which is designed to protect lives and property by attracting and training volunteers before disaster strikes.

Tasmanians have a proud reputation for volunteering, with an average one in three adults selflessly giving up nearly three and a half working weeks of their time for the community every year.

Volunteers are the backbone of many communities and our state’s emergency services rely on them, especially in rural areas.

It was evident from the recent bushfire disaster that devastated the Tasman Peninsula that Tasmanians have an overwhelming desire to help at a time of need.

We want to ensure our volunteers are prepared and trained to not only help others, but ensure their own safety.

The “Join. Learn. Be Ready” program, supported by Federal Government funding and in-kind support from Tasmanian agencies and organisations, aims to ensure our volunteers are prepared.

Volunteer Tasmania will lead the program with the help of Tasmania’s emergency services which have joined forces, including: Tasmania Fire Service, State Emergency Service, Ambulance Tasmania, the Australian Red Cross, St John Ambulance and Surf Life Saving Tasmania.

The campaign will encourage Tasmanians to volunteer and ensure they have the proper training and equipment to help in a time of crisis

The centrepiece of the campaign is a new website, which will be supported by TV commercials, radio advertisements, brochures and social media.

Go to www.emergencyvolunteers.tas.gov.au for more information.
Will Hodgman, Premier