Training

Training Courses

Effective disaster response comes from effective training and preparedness. As a Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) volunteer, you are offered a range of nationally recognised training courses to equip you with valuable skills needed for disaster preparedness, relief and recovery. From chainsaw operations, first aid and fencing, to drone and 4WD courses, our training keeps us at the cutting edge.

These courses are optional and best suited to volunteers who want to be actively involved on the ground in field operations. If you would rather support DRA in a different capacity, there are many other ways to volunteer.

Trimming and felling trees using a chainsaw

Learn how to use a chainsaw safely with training courses provided by Emergency Australia. Begin your learning with the basics of chainsaw, including chain sharpening and servicing, before learning how to apply different cutting techniques. Enhance your skills by learning to use a pole saw and mastering tree felling through basic and intermediate courses.  

Obtain or refresh your First Aid and CPR certifications and be ready to act when faced with medical situations. Build on your skills with Remote First Aid, further developing your ability to provide extended care when professional help is delayed. 

A common side effect of disasters is damaged fencing. Learn how to supervise volunteers to construct both conventional and electric fencing, ensuring safety and professional standards are upheld.

In this course, you will come off–road and learn how to operate and recover four-wheel drive vehicles in difficult terrain. Apply your skills in the field and help us reach rural and remote communities.

DRA volunteers have the option to join a skills weekend to become familiar with the equipment and processes we use when setting up on Operation. It is also an opportunity to get to know some fellow volunteers in your local Disaster Relief and Recovery Team. 

Before you travel (deploy) on a live Operation, we ask all DRA volunteers to complete the Online Core Operations Course. This course can be accessed via the DRA Learning Portal and is designed to help you prepare for your deployment and know what to expect on DRA Operations.

How to enrol

If you are a current volunteer, refer to the calendar below for upcoming courses and submit your expression of interest. 

There are also many training courses available online via the DRA Learning Portal.

Go to DRA’s Learning Portal

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4WD Certification (DRT NT)

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4WD Course (DRRT NSW STH)

4WD Course (DRRT NSW STH)

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Operational Skills Weekend: (DRRT VIC) Saturday 01 – Sunday 02 February 2025

Operational Skills Weekend: (DRRT VIC) Saturday 01 – Sunday 02 February 2025

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We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.