VICSES volunteers build emergency resilience at Amazon forums

30/05/2025, 2:08 AM
VICSES volunteers engaged with Amazon employees throughout the day, discussing their role in emergency response in the community and showcasing their resources.

 Employees of one of the world’s largest commercial goods distributors are now more prepared to seek aid in an emergency, after engaging directly with Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) volunteers and other first responders at a trio of dedicated forums in recent weeks.

Volunteers from VICSES Narre Warren, Frankston, Craigieburn and Melton units were in attendance at Amazon’s Dandenong, Craigieburn and Ravenhall distribution centres this month, joining with emergency service partners CFA, Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and Fire Rescue Victoria in breaking down barriers with local employees, many of whom hail from overseas or speak languages other than English.

The event, which is held annually in partnership with the Emergency Services Foundation, promotes community-building and aims to improve emergency service familiarity among Amazon’s workforce, with hundreds of employees across its three Melbourne factories.

The forum provided a perfect opportunity for VICSES volunteers to discuss their vital role in supporting the community in times of emergency and outline the wide range of opportunities for operational and non-operational volunteers within VICSES.

VICSES Narre Warren Unit volunteers attended Amazon's Dandenong distribution factory.

Members were also able to help Amazon employees gain an understanding of how to stay safe in the event of a weather emergency and when to contact SES on 132 500, while receiving their own guided tour of the company’s expansive warehouse facilities.

Over a shared lunch, volunteers were also able to build relationships with other local first responders, strengthening their ability to Work As One when responding to incidents in their community.

Throughout the three-hour event, Amazon employees were also provided a tour of VICSES emergency response resources, including hydraulic rescue tools, chainsaws and other specialist equipment used by local volunteers.

The event follows a busy start to the year for VICSES volunteers, with members across Victoria having already attended more than 11,000 requests for assistance in their community, and deploying interstate to assist communities in Queensland and NSW respond to weather emergencies.

 To learn more about volunteering with VICSES, visit https://www.ses.vic.gov.au/join-us.

Quotes attributable to Cameron Rothnie, Assistant Chief Officer Unit Support, Emergency Management and Community Engagement:

“Events such as these play an important role in ensuring all corners of our community are aware and able to access emergency assistance when required.

“VICSES volunteers are highly trained and committed to serving their local communities in their times of need, and often Work As One alongside other first responders to provide vital emergency response.

“It always pays to be prepared for an emergency, and we value the opportunity to engage directly with our communities to build familiarity and emergency resilience whenever possible.”