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Confidence, Connection and Empowerment: Understanding the impacts of the AUSWTREX program for First Nations women
This presentation will share findings from a research-led evaluation of the Australia Women-in-Fire Prescribed Fire Training Exchange (AUSWTREX), a 12-day program delivered by the Queensland Fire Department and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, with support from AFAC, WTREX and Fire Networks. The program brought 37 Indigenous and non-Indigenous women together who work or volunteer in fire-related roles, or have an interest in doing so, to enhance their fire practitioner skills, share cultural and western burning knowledge, and develop a network of women in fire.
This research, led by National Indigenous Disaster Resilience at Monash University and funded by Natural Hazards Research Australia, responds to an evidence gap relating to the role of Indigenous women in fire and land management. It aimed to understand the impacts for Indigenous women who participated in the program. Findings show that AUSWTREX had overwhelmingly positive impacts for participants. It went beyond a networking and training opportunity, with all participants describing increased confidence and a strengthened sense of empowerment. Participants found a sense of companionship within a workforce that can be challenging and isolating for Indigenous women.
This research highlights the existence of a highly capable and skilled Indigenous female workforce across the Australian fire and land management sector. It demonstrates that investment in targeted programs such as AUSWTREX can strengthen the wellbeing of this workforce, benefiting both Indigenous women and the broader sector. With ongoing support and resourcing, this workforce has significant potential to continue to grow and strengthen, contributing to a more connected and resilient sector.
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