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.

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 interested in face-to-face courses with a practical component, such as chainsaw training, 4WD training or First Aid courses, refer to the calendar below. Use the event links in the calendar to submit your expression of interest.

For online-only courses, such as the “Core Operations” course and DRA team role-specific courses, head to the DRA Learning Portal.

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First Aid and CPR (DRRT NT)

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CPR (DRRT NSW NTH)

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First Aid and CPR (DRRT TAS)

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Remote First Aid (DRRT ACT)

Remote First Aid (DRRT ACT)

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Remote First Aid (DRRT VIC)

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Rural Fencing Supervisor: (DRRT SA)

Rural Fencing Supervisor: (DRRT SA)

First Aid and CPR (DRRT VIC)

First Aid and CPR (DRRT VIC)

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Fell Trees Intermediate (DRRT SA)

Fell Trees Intermediate (DRRT SA)

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