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Turning down the heat: Supporting firefighters to manage menopause and maintain momentum!
Fire and Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW) is undergoing a dynamic demographic shift that demands proactive, inclusive leadership. In 2025, FRNSW celebrated 40 years of female firefighters, marking a major milestone in the organisation’s history.
As the proportion of female personnel continues to grow- enhancing both workforce strength and operational capability- the organisation faces new responsibilities in supporting the health and wellbeing of its members. Among these emerging priorities is the need to develop an effective resource toolkit, that assists staff experiencing perimenopause and menopausal symptoms, ensuring an inclusive and sustainable working environment for all.
Addressing menopause is not only a health matter; it is a strategic imperative for retention, performance, and morale. Championing an inclusive environment where every team member feels safe, valued, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work is essential.
The physiological changes to thermoregulation, cognition, bone and heart health, sleep, mood and exercise tolerance cannot be underestimated. By acknowledging and responding to this reality, FRNSW is fostering a more supportive, resilient, and equitable workforce for the future and is proud to share its health, fitness and wellbeing framework designed to support firefighters on the frontline:
- Education through connection and sharing of the lived experience. Station Officer Roslyn Bailey shares her experience of managing menopause whilst working on the frontline.
- Evidence-informed supports. Health and Fitness Advisor Andrew Richardson explores the impacts of menopause on female physiology and its interplay with operational firefighting capability—plus practical lifestyle tips on exercise, nutrition, weight control, and sleep.
A toolkit of resources on Perimenopause and Menopause has been developed and is currently available online for all personnel in FRNSW.
FRNSW invites other AFAC agencies to join the conversation. Together, we can transform workplaces into environments where every fire and emergency services worker thrives.
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