Updated framework supports future planning
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An update to CFA’s Succession Planning Framework is available to support brigades and groups in their long-term viability and ensure the coverage of key roles.
Succession planning plays a vital role in building confident leaders and maintaining the strength of CFA into the future.
CFA’s Succession Planning Framework was first released in 2021 in response to data which showed that only a small percentage of brigades and groups were planning for succession, and if they were, it was on an informal basis.
An updated framework has now been released, providing even more practical tools to help identify, develop and support current and future volunteer leaders.
About the framework
The framework is designed to guide brigades through a comprehensive process, focusing on six foundational areas, which are now named:
- Clarifying Roles & Responsibilities
- Reviewing Your Membership
- Identifying Skill Gaps
- Addressing Skill Gaps
- Retaining & Recruiting Volunteers
- Preparing for Elections
There are currently no requirements for brigades or groups to create a documented succession plan, however by doing so brigades and groups can be confident they are always led by the best people.
The framework acknowledges that succession planning may look different for every brigade and group and each of them must determine the best approach to meet local needs. There is no right or wrong way to proceed, a brigade or group can cover all sections of this framework or just a few.
The framework has been positively received and adopted by many brigades including Officer Fire Brigade, whose leadership team implemented succession planning to adapt to demographic changes, ensuring leadership continuity as the community evolved from rural to more residential. Christmas Hills Fire Brigade's leadership team used resources from the Succession Planning Framework to plan for and address role gaps for their upcoming elections, putting them in a strong position for the future
What’s new in the updated release?
The framework has been fully refreshed to make it clearer, more user-friendly and easier to navigate. Key updates include:
- Simplified language and streamlined content
- Updated templates, recent photos and new layout
- Additional guidance on elections, volunteer retention and group structures
- Improved navigation tools and renamed section titles
We encourage you to explore the updated materials and consider how they can support leadership development within your brigade or group.
Need support?
For help using the framework or to discuss how to apply it locally, reach out to your Catchment Team or Volunteer Sustainability Team.