Empowering Women in Emergency Services: Breaking Barriers and Building Strength

A Journey of Discovery: From Tea to Tools

When Laney Lane first joined the Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES), she had no idea what she was getting herself into. She had never tied a complex knot or wielded a chainsaw before. In fact, she thought she was signing up to serve roadside revival tea and coffee—a far cry from the frontline rescue work she would eventually undertake. But life had other plans. Before long, Laney found herself learning specialized rescue techniques, responding to storms, floods, and road crashes, and becoming an integral part of her community’s emergency response team. Her journey is a testament to the often-underestimated capacity of women in roles traditionally dominated by men. As she put it, “I might not have the upper body strength as the men, but I just needed slightly different techniques to achieve the same outcome.”

The Evolving Role of Women in Volunteering

Laney’s story reflects a broader shift in the role of women in volunteering and emergency services. While women have always been involved in volunteering, their roles have historically been more behind-the-scenes. However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the value women bring to the frontline. “Women have always been involved in volunteering, but I suppose it’s only been more recently where we’ve been on the tools,” Laney remarked. Today, women are not just serving tea but are actively involved in rescue operations, using tools, and contributing their unique skills and perspectives to emergency response efforts.

Diversity as a Strength: Building a Resilient Team

The inclusion of women in VICSES has not only diversified the volunteer base but has also strengthened the organization as a whole. As Laney noted, “The team is that much stronger because you have that diversity which not only represents the community but allows a core strength for the whole unit.” Diversity brings different perspectives, problem-solving approaches, and communication styles, all of which are critical in high-stakes emergency situations. By embracing diversity, VICSES is better equipped to serve the community and respond to a wide range of challenges.

Beyond Numbers: Toward Gender Parity in Emergency Services

Currently, women make up nearly 34% of VICSES’s volunteer base, with 1,689 female volunteers out of a total of 5,002. While this is a significant milestone, the organization is committed to achieving near parity. The push for gender equality in emergency services is not just about numbers; it’s about ensuring that the organization reflects the diversity of the community it serves. By actively recruiting and supporting women, VICSES is paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.

Celebrating Female First Responders: Extraordinary Skills and Dedication

Female first responders like Laney are proving that they are just as capable as their male counterparts in handling highly complex and challenging incidents. Interim VICSES Chief Executive Kate White emphasized this point, stating, “Our female first responders are extraordinary, handling highly complex and challenging incidents.” Their skills and dedication were put to the test in 2024, a year marked by an unprecedented number of emergencies, including storms, flash floods, and road rescues. VICSES volunteers responded to a staggering 44,380 requests for assistance statewide, highlighting the critical role these first responders play in keeping communities safe.

The Future of Emergency Services: Empowered Women, Stronger Communities

The training event held on Saturday was more than just a skills-building exercise—it was a celebration of the progress made so far and a step toward a future where women are fully represented in emergency services. By equipping female volunteers with specialized rescue techniques and fostering a culture of inclusion, VICSES is not only boosting its overall capacity but also setting an example for other organizations to follow. As more women join the ranks, they bring with them fresh perspectives, new ideas, and a shared commitment to serving the community. Together, they are building a stronger, more resilient emergency service—one that truly represents the diversity of the people it serves.