VR training expands with new accredited course on the way
VR was a popular activity at this year's State Championships
While live fire training remains an important part of preparedness, virtual reality (VR) is rapidly expanding how CFA members build skills, confidence and operational readiness.
VR is becoming a practical and flexible way to deliver hands-on training across CFA. As it continues to grow, it’s proving to be a powerful addition to traditional training methods.
Upcoming release: VR skills acquisition course
VR is already being used to support skills maintenance, with members able to train in three immersive scenarios: hay shed fire, petrol station fire and house fire (focused on asset protection).
The next step is the introduction of accredited training via VR. A new skills acquisition course in Suppress Wildfire is currently in development and expected to be released in June.
Once available, this course will incorporate VR as the primary source of delivery and form part of the formal training programs and pathways.
Like other accredited training, the course will be scheduled and booked through local Learning and Development teams. Additional VR-based skills acquisition scenarios are also planned as new training content is developed.
Further updates will be provided when the courses are released.
Virtual reality induction workshops now open
Delivered by VR provider Flaim, these two-hour sessions introduce members to VR technology and immersive learning, combining theory with hands-on experience and practical guidance.
New workshop dates have been released, and bookings are now open. Members can register via Members Online by selecting a suitable session and clicking on the registration link to secure their spot.
Instructors endorsed to deliver the Suppress Wildfire acquisition course are encouraged to attend a workshop to fulfill the prerequisite for delivering the course. Alternatively, they may meet this requirement by completing the induction through the Learning Hub.
Booking VR training
Skills maintenance training
Brigades and regions can book VR kits at any time to support local skills maintenance. These sessions are designed to help members refresh and retain core firefighting capabilities through realistic, scenario-based practice. Bookings can be made through local Learning and Development teams.
Skills acquisition training
The upcoming accredited VR course will be delivered by CFA instructors as part of formal training programs. These sessions will be coordinated and booked by Learning and Development teams based on local training needs.
DCO Operational Doctrine and Training Rohan Luke said integrating VR into CFA training is a key objective of the Training Enhancement Program.
“VR training aims to improve engagement, speed up skill development and increase access for members regardless of location,” Rohan said.
“VR is set to play an increasingly important role in how CFA delivers training into the future -enhancing capability while supporting safer and more sustainable training practices.
“We look forward to keeping members updated, particularly as our new skills acquisition courses are released.”